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BHX → CGN
Which side of the plane to sit from Birmingham International Airport (Birmingham) to Cologne Bonn Airport (Cologne)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the sprawling industrial coastlines of the Netherlands and a high probability of spotting the iconic Cologne Cathedral on the final approach into CGN.
Birmingham City Center
Aerial views of the Bullring, the Library of Birmingham, and the historical industrial landscape of the West Midlands immediately after takeoff.
East Anglian Fens
The unique, flat, and highly patterned agricultural grid of the English Fens as the flight heads toward the coast.
Rotterdam Europoort
One of the world's largest port complexes, featuring massive container terminals and the artificial islands of the Maasvlakte.
Dutch Polders
Geometrically perfect reclaimed land and intricate canal systems characteristic of the Netherlands' coastal defense.
Cologne Cathedral
On many northern approaches (Runway 14L/R), the massive twin spires of the Kölner Dom are visible towering over the city center.
Sit on the left to avoid direct southern sun glare during midday flights. This side provides the best angle for viewing the Dutch coastline and the industrial Ruhr region in the distance. During the final descent, look for the Rhine river winding through Leverkusen and the northern suburbs of Cologne.
Warwickshire Countryside
Post-takeoff views of the rolling green hills and historic estates of central England, including the outskirts of Coventry.
Belgian Coast
Clear views of the long sandy beaches and seaside resorts near Ostend and Zeebrugge as you cross from the North Sea.
Fortress Cities
Potential views of the historic fortifications and urban layouts of cities like Maastricht or Liège depending on the specific corridor.
Eifel Mountains
As the flight nears the German border, the forested peaks and volcanic landscape of the Eifel range appear to the south.
Bonn & The Rhine
Excellent views of the former West German capital, Bonn, and the scenic Siebengebirge hills during a southern approach.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to catch the sun illuminating the Belgian and German landscapes. It offers better views of the Ardennes foothills and the more scenic, hilly terrain south of the airport. Keep an eye out for the Rhine River's dramatic bends as you enter the Rhineland.
Distance: 638 km (396 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 4 min
Departure: BHX (52.4538993835, -1.7480299472799998)
Arrival: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)
Route Type: International
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