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ALC destination photo
LGW destination photo

ALCLGW

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side offers an exceptional view of the Costa Blanca's famous coastline and skyscrapers immediately after takeoff, followed by the more dramatic high peaks of the Central Pyrenees and a superior perspective of the Sussex coast during the Gatwick approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Costa Blanca Coastline

The 'Manhattan of Spain'—Benidorm's iconic skyline and the massive Peñón de Ifach rock at Calpe.

⛰️

Central Pyrenees

The highest peaks of the range, including Pico Aneto, often covered in snow even in late spring.

🏰

Loire Valley

The winding Loire River and the many historical châteaux scattered throughout central France.

🚢

English Channel

A bird's eye view of one of the world's busiest shipping lanes between Dieppe and Newhaven.

🎡

Brighton Seafront

The Brighton Palace Pier and the i360 tower are frequently visible as the plane makes its turn into LGW.

🌳

South Downs National Park

The rolling green chalk hills of Sussex during the final minutes of the flight.

The right side is best for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. Keep your camera ready 5-10 minutes after takeoff for the stunning Mediterranean coastline. On the descent into Gatwick, if the plane approaches from the south, you will get an unparalleled view of the white cliffs and Brighton's beachfront.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏰

Alicante City

Views of Mount Benacantil and the Santa Bárbara Castle overlooking the harbor.

🏔️

Western Pyrenees

The rugged, green-tinted peaks of the Basque region as you cross the border into France.

🍷

Bordeaux Vineyards

The geometric patterns of the famous Médoc wine estates visible from high altitude.

🌊

Bay of Biscay

The vast Atlantic horizon stretching out to the west during the mid-flight cruise.

⛵

Isle of Wight

The distinct diamond shape of the island and the Solent waterway during the descent phase.

⚓

Portsmouth Harbour

The Spinnaker Tower and historical naval docks are often visible on the final approach.

Sit on the left for evening flights to witness the sunset over the Atlantic and the Bay of Biscay. It is also the better side for spotting the Gironde estuary in France. During landing, this side often provides a clearer view of the English countryside in Hampshire and West Sussex.

Top Activities in London
Route Information

Distance: 1,431 km (889 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 54 min

Departure: ALC (38.28219985961914, -0.5581560134887695)

Arrival: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)

Route Type: International

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