While the right side offers good takeoff views of the Sierra de Guadarrama, the left side provides superior scenery for the majority of the flight and especially during the dramatic descent to Split along the Adriatic coast. The coastal approach is more visually rewarding than the plateau departure.
Flown MAD to SPU? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Madrid to Split is 1,039 miles (1,672 km), a flight of about 3 hours.
The flight path crosses the Pyrenees (visible as a distant ridge if flying north of direct route) or passes south of them, then traverses southern France and the Mediterranean coast near the Provence region. The aircraft then crosses the Mediterranean Sea, with the Italian coast (Tuscany or further south) potentially visible on the left during cruise. The flight approaches the Balkans from the west, with the Dinaric Alps becoming increasingly prominent as the aircraft descends toward the Croatian coast. The Adriatic Sea dominates the final 30-40 minutes of flight.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MAD
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range as the aircraft climbs northeast out of Madrid. The mountains form a dramatic backdrop immediately visible during the initial climb phase.
Landing at SPU
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the Dalmatian coast and the Adriatic Sea as the aircraft descends toward Split. The dramatic limestone cliffs and island-dotted coastline are spectacular during final approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Barajas (MAD) to Split (SPU)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Madrid to Split. While the right side offers good takeoff views of the Sierra de Guadarrama, the left side provides superior scenery for the majority of the flight and especially during the dramatic descent to Split along the Adriatic coast. The coastal approach is more visually rewarding than the plateau departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Barajas in Madrid?
During takeoff from Barajas (MAD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range as the aircraft climbs northeast out of Madrid. The mountains form a dramatic backdrop immediately visible during the initial climb phase. Notable sights include: Sierra de Guadarrama (northeast), Madrid city sprawl (directly below during climb), Tagus River valley (west), Central Plateau terrain (south and east).
What can I see when landing at Split in Split?
When landing at Split (SPU), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Dalmatian coast and the Adriatic Sea as the aircraft descends toward Split. The dramatic limestone cliffs and island-dotted coastline are spectacular during final approach. Notable sights include: Adriatic Sea (west and south), Dalmatian limestone coast with cliffs (west), Split city and harbor (center-east during final descent), Dinaric Alps foothills (east and north).
How long is the flight from Madrid to Split?
The flight from Barajas (MAD) to Split (SPU) takes about 3 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 1,039 miles (1,672 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Madrid to Split flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Pyrenees (visible as a distant ridge if flying north of direct route) or passes south of them, then traverses southern France and the Mediterranean coast near the Provence region. The aircraft then crosses the Mediterranean Sea, with the Italian coast (Tuscany or further south) potentially visible on the left during cruise. The flight approaches the Balkans from the west, with the Dinaric Alps becoming increasingly prominent as the aircraft descends toward the Croatian coast. The Adriatic Sea dominates the final 30-40 minutes of flight.