Both sides score equally for this short inter-island flight, but the right side (north-facing approach to Terceira) edges ahead during landing with more distinctive volcanic features and harbor scenery. Terceira's Monte Brasil and cinder cone formations provide greater visual drama than São Miguel's departure views. The flight is too brief and ocean-dominated to score higher than 2.5 per side.
Flown PDL to TER? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Ponta Delgada to Terceira is 103 miles (166 km), a flight of about 25 minutes.
Open Atlantic Ocean between São Miguel and Terceira islands; no significant landmarks visible at cruise altitude during this 25-minute flight over water
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PDL
LEFTLeft side captures Ponta Delgada's harbor and the southern coast of São Miguel Island during climb-out, with volcanic terrain and coastal features. Right side faces open Atlantic immediately.
Landing at TER
RIGHTRight side (north-facing approach to Terceira) reveals Terceira Island's distinctive volcanic landscape, including Monte Brasil and the island's characteristic cinder cones. Left side shows open ocean.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ponta Delgada (PDL) to Lajes (TER)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Ponta Delgada to Terceira. Both sides score equally for this short inter-island flight, but the right side (north-facing approach to Terceira) edges ahead during landing with more distinctive volcanic features and harbor scenery. Terceira's Monte Brasil and cinder cone formations provide greater visual drama than São Miguel's departure views. The flight is too brief and ocean-dominated to score higher than 2.5 per side.
What can I see during takeoff from Ponta Delgada in Ponta Delgada?
During takeoff from Ponta Delgada (PDL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures Ponta Delgada's harbor and the southern coast of São Miguel Island during climb-out, with volcanic terrain and coastal features. Right side faces open Atlantic immediately. Notable sights include: Ponta Delgada harbor and waterfront, São Miguel's southern volcanic coastline, Lagoa de Santiago crater lake visible inland.
What can I see when landing at Lajes in Terceira?
When landing at Lajes (TER), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (north-facing approach to Terceira) reveals Terceira Island's distinctive volcanic landscape, including Monte Brasil and the island's characteristic cinder cones. Left side shows open ocean. Notable sights include: Monte Brasil volcanic promontory, Terceira Island's northern coastline, Angra do Heroísmo harbor area, volcanic cinder cone formations.
How long is the flight from Ponta Delgada to Terceira?
The flight from Ponta Delgada (PDL) to Lajes (TER) takes about 25 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 103 miles (166 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Ponta Delgada to Terceira flight path pass over?
Open Atlantic Ocean between São Miguel and Terceira islands; no significant landmarks visible at cruise altitude during this 25-minute flight over water