While the landing approach favors the left for Pico Mountain views, the takeoff from São Miguel offers more varied and extended scenic interest with the island's calderas, coastline, and harbor. Right-side seats capture the most dramatic departure scenery.
Flown PDL to PIX? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Ponta Delgada to Pico is 159 miles (256 km), a flight of about 35 minutes.
Open Atlantic Ocean between the two islands; the channel between São Miguel and Terceira Island (if visible to the north); scattered smaller islands of the Azores archipelago depending on exact flight routing
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PDL
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of São Miguel's eastern and southern coastlines as the aircraft climbs northwestward. You'll see the dramatic volcanic terrain and coastal cliffs that define the island's geography during the initial climb.
Landing at PIX
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of Pico Island's iconic volcanic cone during descent and approach. The mountain dominates the landscape and is visible from considerable distance as you approach from the southeast.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ponta Delgada (PDL) to Pico (PIX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Ponta Delgada to Pico. While the landing approach favors the left for Pico Mountain views, the takeoff from São Miguel offers more varied and extended scenic interest with the island's calderas, coastline, and harbor. Right-side seats capture the most dramatic departure scenery.
What can I see during takeoff from Ponta Delgada in Ponta Delgada?
During takeoff from Ponta Delgada (PDL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of São Miguel's eastern and southern coastlines as the aircraft climbs northwestward. You'll see the dramatic volcanic terrain and coastal cliffs that define the island's geography during the initial climb. Notable sights include: São Miguel's southern coast with Ponta Delgada harbor, volcanic calderas inland, Atlantic Ocean extending south.
What can I see when landing at Pico in Pico?
When landing at Pico (PIX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of Pico Island's iconic volcanic cone during descent and approach. The mountain dominates the landscape and is visible from considerable distance as you approach from the southeast. Notable sights include: Pico Mountain (2,351 m volcanic peak), Faial Island to the northwest across the channel, Atlantic coastline of Pico.
How long is the flight from Ponta Delgada to Pico?
The flight from Ponta Delgada (PDL) to Pico (PIX) takes about 35 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 159 miles (256 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Ponta Delgada to Pico flight path pass over?
Open Atlantic Ocean between the two islands; the channel between São Miguel and Terceira Island (if visible to the north); scattered smaller islands of the Azores archipelago depending on exact flight routing