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BHX → BFS
Which side of the plane to sit from Birmingham International Airport (Birmingham) to Belfast International Airport (Belfast)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the Welsh coastline and a more dramatic entrance into Northern Ireland over Strangford Lough and the Mourne Mountains.
Snowdonia (Eryri)
Distant but clear views of the highest peaks in Wales as you head northwest.
Anglesey Coastline
The rugged cliffs and the Menai Strait separating the island from mainland Wales.
Irish Sea Crossing
Deep blue waters that occasionally reveal ferry routes connecting the UK and Ireland.
Strangford Lough
An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with numerous small drumlin islands.
Belfast Cityscape
A bird's-eye view of the Titanic Quarter and the Harland and Wolff cranes on descent.
Choose the left side for evening flights to catch the sunset over the water without direct glare. During the descent into BFS, look southward to spot the Mourne Mountains if the cloud base is high. This side provides a better perspective of the Northern Irish coastline upon arrival.
Liverpool & The Mersey
The historic waterfront and docks of Liverpool are often visible shortly after takeoff.
Blackpool Tower
The iconic landmark and coastline of Lancashire are visible to the north on clear days.
Isle of Man
A central view of the island, including Douglas and the peak of Snaefell.
The North Channel
The narrow strait between Northern Ireland and Scotland, often dotted with cargo ships.
Lough Neagh
The UK's largest freshwater lake, which the flight path often skirts during the final approach.
The right side is best for mid-flight landmarks like the Isle of Man. It is particularly scenic during morning flights when the sun illuminates the English and Manx coastlines. Keep a lookout for the massive expanse of Lough Neagh as the plane turns for its final landing sequence.
Distance: 383 km (238 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 38 min
Departure: BHX (52.4538993835, -1.7480299472799998)
Arrival: BFS (54.6575012207, -6.21582984924)
Route Type: Domestic
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