The takeoff view from the left side is more dramatic and geographically distinctive—the Serra de Tramuntana and Balearic coastline provide sharp visual contrast. The landing approach over Madrid is relatively flat and suburban from either side, making the takeoff experience superior for window-seat geography.
Flown PMI to MAD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Palma De Mallorca to Madrid is 340 miles (547 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight crosses the Mediterranean Sea heading west-northwest, passing over open water for roughly 40 minutes. The coastline of eastern Spain (Valencia region) becomes visible on the right around midpoint, appearing as a thin line of development backed by the flat Iberian interior. The Meseta Central plateau dominates the final 30 minutes of approach as the aircraft descends toward Madrid.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase

Takeoff from PMI
LEFTPMI typically departs runway 06 (northeast heading). Left seats face northwest initially, giving direct views of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range and the Balearic coastline as you climb out over the Mediterranean.

Landing at MAD
RIGHTMAD approaches from the west on runway 32L/32R. Right seats face south during final descent, offering views of the Tagus River valley, the southern Madrid suburbs, and the approach path over the Meseta Central plateau.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Palma De Mallorca (PMI) to Barajas (MAD)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Palma De Mallorca to Madrid. The takeoff view from the left side is more dramatic and geographically distinctive—the Serra de Tramuntana and Balearic coastline provide sharp visual contrast. The landing approach over Madrid is relatively flat and suburban from either side, making the takeoff experience superior for window-seat geography.
What can I see during takeoff from Palma De Mallorca in Palma De Mallorca?
During takeoff from Palma De Mallorca (PMI), sit on the Left side for the best views. PMI typically departs runway 06 (northeast heading). Left seats face northwest initially, giving direct views of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range and the Balearic coastline as you climb out over the Mediterranean. Notable sights include: Serra de Tramuntana (northwest, dramatic limestone ridge), Palma Bay (immediate offshore waters), Cabrera Archipelago (small islands southeast on horizon), Mediterranean Sea extending north.
What can I see when landing at Barajas in Madrid?
When landing at Barajas (MAD), sit on the Right side for the best views. MAD approaches from the west on runway 32L/32R. Right seats face south during final descent, offering views of the Tagus River valley, the southern Madrid suburbs, and the approach path over the Meseta Central plateau. Notable sights include: Tagus River (visible as a winding ribbon through the landscape), Madrid city sprawl (extensive urban development), Sierra de Guadarrama (distant northern peaks on horizon), Meseta Central plateau (flat terrain dominating the approach).
How long is the flight from Palma De Mallorca to Madrid?
The flight from Palma De Mallorca (PMI) to Barajas (MAD) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 340 miles (547 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Palma De Mallorca to Madrid flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Mediterranean Sea heading west-northwest, passing over open water for roughly 40 minutes. The coastline of eastern Spain (Valencia region) becomes visible on the right around midpoint, appearing as a thin line of development backed by the flat Iberian interior. The Meseta Central plateau dominates the final 30 minutes of approach as the aircraft descends toward Madrid.