While takeoff offers dramatic Andean scenery, the landing approach provides more sustained visual interest over a longer period—the transition from open sea to intricate polder landscape is more visually rewarding than a brief mountain view during climb-out.
Flown UIO to AMS? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Quito to Amsterdam is 5,935 miles (9,551 km), a flight of about 9 hours 45 minutes.
Atlantic Ocean crossing (no landmarks visible for approximately 6 hours); approaching European coast near Portugal/Spain, the Iberian Peninsula's western edge and coastal features become visible; transition over France with occasional river valleys and agricultural patterns; final approach over North Sea toward Netherlands
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from UIO
LEFTLeft side offers immediate views of the Andes peaks surrounding Quito's high-altitude basin. The aircraft climbs northwest, and left-seat passengers see the volcanic peaks of Pichincha and Cotopaxi as the city drops away beneath.
Landing at AMS
RIGHTRight side provides the best views during descent into Amsterdam. Aircraft approach from the southeast over the North Sea and Dutch coastline, and right-seat passengers see the flat polder landscape, inland waterways, and the Ijsselmeer before touchdown.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) to Schiphol (AMS)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Quito to Amsterdam. While takeoff offers dramatic Andean scenery, the landing approach provides more sustained visual interest over a longer period—the transition from open sea to intricate polder landscape is more visually rewarding than a brief mountain view during climb-out.
What can I see during takeoff from Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito?
During takeoff from Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers immediate views of the Andes peaks surrounding Quito's high-altitude basin. The aircraft climbs northwest, and left-seat passengers see the volcanic peaks of Pichincha and Cotopaxi as the city drops away beneath. Notable sights include: Pichincha volcano (directly west of airport), Cotopaxi volcano (north-northwest on horizon), Quito's urban grid in the inter-Andean valley, Eastern Cordillera ridgeline to the east.
What can I see when landing at Schiphol in Amsterdam?
When landing at Schiphol (AMS), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides the best views during descent into Amsterdam. Aircraft approach from the southeast over the North Sea and Dutch coastline, and right-seat passengers see the flat polder landscape, inland waterways, and the Ijsselmeer before touchdown. Notable sights include: North Sea coastline, Ijsselmeer (large inland lake), Dutch polder fields with geometric canal systems, Amsterdam city center and port facilities.
How long is the flight from Quito to Amsterdam?
The flight from Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) to Schiphol (AMS) takes about 9 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,935 miles (9,551 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Quito to Amsterdam flight path pass over?
Atlantic Ocean crossing (no landmarks visible for approximately 6 hours); approaching European coast near Portugal/Spain, the Iberian Peninsula's western edge and coastal features become visible; transition over France with occasional river valleys and agricultural patterns; final approach over North Sea toward Netherlands