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ACI destination photo
SOU destination photo

ACISOU

Which side of the plane to sit from Alderney Airport (Alderney) to Southampton Airport (Southampton)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a front-row seat to the iconic Needles chalk formations and the picturesque northern coastline of the Isle of Wight as you enter the Solent.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏘️

Braye Harbour

Detailed views of Alderney's breakwater and town immediately after departure from ACI.

📍

The Needles

The world-famous three white chalk stacks and lighthouse at the western tip of the Isle of Wight.

⛵

The Solent

A bustling stretch of water filled with ferries, sailboats, and international cruise ships.

🏰

Osborne House

Queen Victoria's former rural retreat, visible among the trees on the Isle of Wight's northern shore.

🏟️

St Mary's Stadium

The home of Southampton FC is often visible on the final approach into SOU.

The right side is essential for the best landmarks. Watch for 'The Needles' about halfway through the flight. If arriving on a clear day, the sun will illuminate the chalk cliffs of the Isle of Wight perfectly for photography. Choose a seat behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the maritime traffic in the Solent.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🌊

Poole Harbour

One of the world's largest natural harbours, visible on the horizon as the plane approaches the English coast.

🌲

The New Forest National Park

A vast expanse of ancient woodland and heathland stretching across the Hampshire landscape.

🚢

Southampton Container Terminal

Massive gantry cranes and stacks of colorful containers at one of the UK's most significant shipping hubs.

🏗️

Fawley Refinery

The sprawling industrial complex on the western shore of Southampton Water, particularly striking when lit up at night.

Sit on the left if you prefer views of the rugged Dorset coastline and the lush greenery of the New Forest. For afternoon flights, this side experiences less sun glare, making it easier to spot the distant Sandbanks peninsula.

Top Activities in Southampton
Route Information

Distance: 151 km (94 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 15 min

Departure: ACI (49.706104, -2.21472)

Arrival: SOU (50.95029830932617, -1.3567999601364136)

Route Type: International

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