Loading map...

BRU destination photo
LGW destination photo

BRULGW

Which side of the plane to sit from Brussels Airport (Brussels) to London Gatwick Airport (London)?

Our Recommendation
7.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most iconic views of historic Flemish cities and a classic perspective of the English coastline, including the White Cliffs of Dover, during the short crossing.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏙️

Brussels & Flanders

Aerial views of the Brussels city center followed by the medieval layouts of Ghent and Bruges.

⛴️

Port of Calais

On clear days, the French coastline and the busy ferry traffic crossing the Strait of Dover are visible.

⛰️

White Cliffs of Dover

An iconic view of the English chalk cliffs as the aircraft transitions from the Channel to Kent.

🌳

Kentish Countryside

Known as the Garden of England, featuring rolling hills and traditional oast houses during descent.

Sit toward the front or middle to avoid engine obstruction. In the morning, this side faces south, offering great lighting for photos of the Belgian landscape without harsh direct sun glare.

Right Side Highlights
7.0
🌊

Belgian Coastline

Panoramic views of the sandy beaches from Knokke-Heist to the industrial port of Zeebrugge.

🌬️

Offshore Wind Farms

Massive arrays of wind turbines situated in the North Sea between the UK and Belgium.

🛶

Thames Estuary

As you approach London, you can often see the mouth of the Thames and the coastal towns of Essex.

🏙️

London Skyline

On the standard approach to Gatwick, the distant skyscrapers of the City and Canary Wharf are visible to the north.

Choose this side if you want a chance to spot the London skyline in the distance during the arrival phase. Afternoon flights on this side may experience some glare as the sun moves toward the west.

Top Activities in London
Route Information

Distance: 328 km (204 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 33 min

Departure: BRU (50.9014015198, 4.48443984985)

Arrival: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.