A new study by travel insurance provider AllClear used eye-tracking technology to determine which airport approaches captivate passengers the most, and Madeira secured a top-three spot with an impressive score of 77/100.

A landing like no other

Touching down in Madeira is an unforgettable experience. Surrounded by the majestic Atlantic Ocean and dramatic mountain cliffs, this landing is both thrilling and spectacular. The airport’s infamous approach requires pilots to make a unique right-hand turn before aligning with the runway, making it an incredible moment for travellers and a true test of skill for pilots. Madeira is already renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and year-round spring-like climate. Now, with this recognition, its airport approach is officially one of the most scenic in the world. The descent into Funchal is the perfect first glimpse of paradise, a moment that will stay with you long after your wheels touch the ground.

Top 10 most beautiful airport landings

Madeira shares the third-place ranking with Aspen’s Pitkin County Airport (USA), both scoring 77/100. Leading the list is Lord Howe Island Airport (Australia), followed by Queenstown Airport (New Zealand) in second place. Other stunning airport descents that made the list include:

1. Lord Howe Island Airport (Australia) – 85/100

2. Queenstown Airport (New Zealand) – 79/100

3. Madeira Airport (Portugal) – 77/100

4. Pitkin County Airport (USA) – 77/100

5. Rio de Janeiro-Santos Dumont Airport (Brazil) – 76/100

6. London City Airport (UK) – 76/100

7. Innsbruck Airport (Austria) – 74/100

8. Paro Airport (Bhutan) – 72/100

9. Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport (Caribbean Netherlands) – 69/100

10. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (Hawaii, USA) – 68/100

For the full listing of the most beautiful airport landings in the world, please visit https://www.allcleartravel.co.uk/blog/the-worlds-most-beautiful-airport-landings/