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BHD → SOU
Which side of the plane to sit from George Best Belfast City Airport (Belfast) to Southampton Airport (Southampton)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior perspective of the rugged North Wales coastline and the sprawling beauty of the English Cotswolds before descending over the historic South Downs.
Stormont & Belfast Lough
Immediately after takeoff from BHD, enjoy views of the Northern Ireland Parliament Buildings and the scenic North Down coastline.
Snowdonia National Park
As you cross the Irish Sea, the dramatic peaks of North Wales, including Snowdon, are visible to the south.
The Cotswolds
During the mid-flight cruise, look down at the distinctive honey-colored stone villages and rolling limestone hills of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Winchester Cathedral
On the final approach from the north, the historic city of Winchester and its massive medieval cathedral are often clearly visible.
South Downs
The green ridges of the South Downs National Park provide a beautiful backdrop just before the wheels touch down in Southampton.
Sit on the left for the best morning light as you fly south-southeast. During the descent, keep your camera ready for the contrast between the green hills of Hampshire and the urban sprawl of Winchester. If the flight departs to the northeast, you will get an excellent view of Carrickfergus Castle shortly after liftoff.
Isle of Man
Depending on the flight path, the Isle of Man often appears as a distinct landmass in the middle of the Irish Sea to the north.
Liverpool & The Wirral
Clear views of the Mersey Estuary and the industrial heritage of the Northwest England coastline during the transition from sea to land.
The New Forest
As the plane aligns for landing at SOU, the ancient woodlands and heathlands of the New Forest National Park stretch out to the west.
Southampton Docks
View the massive container terminals and world-famous cruise liners docked at the Port of Southampton during the final seconds of flight.
Isle of Wight
If the aircraft performs a southern loop over the Solent for a Runway 02 approach, the northern coast of the Isle of Wight is visible.
The right side is ideal for catching the sunset on late afternoon flights. It offers the best view of the Southampton cruise terminals, which is a highlight if major ships like the Queen Mary 2 are in port. Watch for the 'Spinnaker Tower' in the distance toward the southeast if the air is clear during the descent.
Distance: 508 km (316 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 51 min
Departure: BHD (54.61809921264648, -5.872499942779541)
Arrival: SOU (50.95029830932617, -1.3567999601364136)
Route Type: Domestic
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