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BHX destination photo
BRU destination photo

BHXBRU

Our Recommendation
7.8

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer distinct views of the English countryside and the crossing into Europe, the right side typically provides a superior view of the English Channel narrow point and a panoramic vista of the Brussels city center, including the Atomium, during the final approach into BRU.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌳

Warwickshire Countryside

Rolling hills and historic estates like Warwick Castle can be seen shortly after departure from Birmingham.

🚢

English Channel Narrow

On clear days, see the busy maritime traffic in the Channel and potentially the distant White Cliffs of Dover.

🚜

Flanders Battlefields

The flat landscapes of West Flanders, dotted with historical sites and cemeteries from the World Wars.

🗼

Brussels Atomium

A prime view of the iconic silver spheres of the Atomium and the Heysel plateau during the descent.

🌆

Brussels City Center

A sweeping view of the Brussels skyline, including the Palace of Justice and the EU district, before touchdown.

The right side is generally preferred for the approach into Brussels. If the wind is from the west (typical), the plane will loop around the city, offering a spectacular view of the urban sprawl. Afternoon flights provide the best lighting for photography on this side as the sun moves behind the aircraft.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Birmingham Suburbs

Clear views of Solihull and the industrial landscapes of the West Midlands immediately after takeoff from BHX.

🌾

East Anglian Fens

The flat, agricultural patchwork of the Fens and the outskirts of Cambridge are visible as you head toward the coast.

🌊

North Sea Transition

A vast view of the North Sea as the aircraft leaves the UK coastline near the Essex/Suffolk border.

⚓

Port of Zeebrugge

The massive cargo terminals and busy shipping lanes of one of Europe's largest ports come into view upon entering Belgian airspace.

🏰

Historical Bruges

The distinct medieval circular layout and belfry of Bruges can be spotted if the flight path tracks slightly north.

Sit on the left if you prefer looking out over the open North Sea. For the best lighting, morning flights are ideal as the sun will be on the opposite side of the aircraft. Keep an eye out for the massive offshore wind farms frequently visible in the water between the UK and Belgium.

Top Activities in Brussels
Route Information

Distance: 463 km (288 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 46 min

Departure: BHX (52.4538993835, -1.7480299472799998)

Arrival: BRU (50.9014015198, 4.48443984985)

Route Type: International

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