While takeoff offers river and city views from the right, the landing approach to Madeira from the left provides more dramatic and distinctive scenery—the island's volcanic peaks, steep cliffs, and unique topography are far more visually striking than the relatively flat Lisbon estuary.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean southwest from Lisbon. At midpoint, the aircraft is over open ocean with no visible landmarks—this is roughly 100 nautical miles west of the Portuguese coast. As the flight approaches Madeira from the northeast, the island becomes visible on the horizon as a dark mass, then gradually reveals its volcanic peaks and steep northern cliffs. The approach descent offers continuous views of the island's dramatic terrain.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Lisboa (LIS) to Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Lisbon to Funchal. While takeoff offers river and city views from the right, the landing approach to Madeira from the left provides more dramatic and distinctive scenery—the island's volcanic peaks, steep cliffs, and unique topography are far more visually striking than the relatively flat Lisbon estuary.
What can I see during takeoff from Lisboa in Lisbon?
During takeoff from Lisboa (LIS), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Tagus River estuary and Lisbon's waterfront as the aircraft climbs southwest. The river's distinctive wide mouth and the city's layout along both banks are clearly visible during the initial climb-out. Notable sights include: Tagus River estuary, Lisbon city center and waterfront districts, Cristo Rei monument on the south bank, Atlantic coastline south of the city.
What can I see when landing at Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport in Funchal?
When landing at Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of Madeira's dramatic volcanic terrain during descent. The island's steep cliffs, central peaks, and the approach to Funchal's coastal location are best seen from the left as aircraft descend from the northeast. Notable sights include: Madeira's central mountain ridge (Pico Ruivo area), steep northern cliffs, Funchal city and harbor on the southern coast, Atlantic Ocean surrounding the island.
How long is the flight from Lisbon to Funchal?
The flight from Lisboa (LIS) to Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC) takes Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
What does the Lisbon to Funchal flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean southwest from Lisbon. At midpoint, the aircraft is over open ocean with no visible landmarks—this is roughly 100 nautical miles west of the Portuguese coast. As the flight approaches Madeira from the northeast, the island becomes visible on the horizon as a dark mass, then gradually reveals its volcanic peaks and steep northern cliffs. The approach descent offers continuous views of the island's dramatic terrain.