While ‘window or aisle’ may be a matter of debate on many flights, certain destinations demand an uninterrupted view on landing. And the world’s most window seat-worthy runways are now revealed, in PrivateFly’s annual Scenic Airports poll, voted for by travel fans and experts.
Adam Twidell, CEO of privatejet charter booking service PrivateFly and an experienced pilot, comments: “Some airports offer an aerial view that becomes reason enough to visit in itself – never mind what attractions await on the ground.
“Our Scenic Airports poll presents a bucket list for travel fans, offering a mix of global descents to tick off in your lifetime. Some of these destinations are rapidly acquiring iconic status with aviation enthusiasts as a result.”
PrivateFly teamed up with a panel of travel experts to form the shortlist before the public vote, including travel writers Nigel Tisdall and Francesca Street; and aviation experts Johnny Jet and Doug Gollan.
The 2019 top ten is as follows:
- Donegal (Ireland)
- Barra (Scotland, UK)
- Nice (France)
- Orlando Melbourne (USA)
- St Maarten (French/Dutch Caribbean)
- Saba (Dutch Caribbean)
- Queenstown (New Zealand)
- Toronto Billy Bishop (Canada)
- London City (England, UK)
- Aosta (Italy)
The most votes overall went to Ireland’s Donegal Airport, on the country’s northwest Atlantic coast, which claims the number one spot for the second year.
Twidell continues: “Donegal’s rugged coastal landscapes are truly awe-inspiring as you come into land. There is simply nowhere else like it, and its popularity with global travellers is clear.”
One voter commented in support of Donegal: “The view is spectacular! Mountains on one side and a beautiful rugged coastline dotted with islands and golden sandy beaches running adjacent to the runway.” Another said "there is nowhere as lovely as the wild rugged beauty of unspoiled Donegal.”
Anne Bonner, Managing Director of Donegal Airport comments as follows: “We are delighted to retain this acclaim as the ‘World’s Most Scenic Airport Landing 2019’, having been voted No. 1 airport landing for the second year running. It is indeed a great endorsement from the travelling public and aviation/travel experts. Donegal airport is located in the heart of the Northern Headlands in Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way – now top of the world’s places to visit”.
