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BCN β STN
Which side of the plane to sit from Barcelona International Airport (Barcelona) to London Stansted Airport (London)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the iconic Barcelona coastline during departure and provides a breathtaking panorama of the eastern Pyrenees and the Thames Estuary upon arrival.
Barcelona Cityscape
Unbeatable views of the Sagrada FamΓlia, the Eixample grid, and the busy Mediterranean port.
Costa Brava
The rugged, beautiful 'Wild Coast' of Catalonia stretching north toward the French border.
Massif Central
The ancient, extinct volcanic peaks of central France offer a unique cratered landscape.
Paris Silhouette
On clear days, the distant sprawl of Paris and the Eiffel Tower may be visible on the eastern horizon.
Thames Estuary
The complex network of sandbanks, shipping lanes, and wind farms at the mouth of the River Thames.
London Skyline
Depending on the arrival pattern, iconic skyscrapers like the Shard and the Gherkin are often visible to the west.
The right side is essential for the best views of Barcelona's urban planning during takeoff. During descent into Stansted, this side often provides a stunning view of the London skyline and the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting for photography of the French countryside.
Montserrat
The distinct, jagged peaks of the Montserrat massif are visible shortly after departure from Barcelona.
Western Pyrenees
Expansive views of the snow-capped border mountains between Spain and France.
Loire Valley
The winding Loire River and its surrounding historic chateaus can be spotted through central France.
Normandy Coastline
The dramatic white chalk cliffs and beaches of northern France before crossing the English Channel.
South Downs
The rolling green hills and chalk grasslands of Sussex and Kent as the flight enters English airspace.
Opt for a morning flight on the left side to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. This side is particularly rewarding for seeing the unique geological formations of Montserrat within the first 10 minutes of flight. Ensure you have a window seat forward of the wing for an unobstructed view of the French coastline.
Distance: 1,186 km (737 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: BCN (41.2971, 2.07846)
Arrival: STN (51.8849983215, 0.234999999404)
Route Type: International
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