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BSL destination photo
LHR destination photo

BSLLHR

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior for this route primarily due to the approach into London Heathrow, which often offers a spectacular panoramic view of the central London skyline and the River Thames.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Vosges Mountains

View the rounded peaks and dense forests of the Vosges range shortly after takeoff from EuroAirport.

🍾

Champagne Region

Look down upon the rolling hills and famous vineyards of the Grand Est region in France.

🌊

The English Channel

The crossing point between mainland Europe and the UK, often filled with cargo ships.

🎡

Central London Skyline

The iconic view of The Shard, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye during the final descent into LHR.

🌳

Royal Parks

Clear views of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens just moments before the wheels touch the runway.

To maximize your experience, choose the left side for evening flights when the London skyline is brilliantly illuminated. If the plane lands to the west (Runway 27L or 27R), which happens about 70% of the time, the left side provides the most direct view of the city center landmarks. Be sure to look out for the silhouette of the Eiffel Tower far in the distance to the south as you pass north of Paris.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌲

Black Forest

On a clear day, look east to see the dark, wooded hills of the German Black Forest across the Rhine.

⚪

White Cliffs of Dover

Spot the iconic chalk cliffs as the flight crosses the coast into English airspace near Kent.

🏗️

Thames Estuary

The massive industrial infrastructure of the London Gateway and the Dartford Crossing.

🏟️

Wembley Stadium

The famous arch of Wembley is often visible to the north during the final approach pattern.

🏢

Canary Wharf

Views of the high-rise financial district and the O2 Arena as the plane follows the Thames.

The right side is ideal for passengers who enjoy coastal geography and industrial landmarks. It offers the best perspective of the Thames Estuary and the 'Garden of England' (Kent). During morning flights, this side will be away from the direct sun, making it easier to take photos of the English coastline without glare. It also provides a great view of the northern suburbs of London.

Top Activities in London
Route Information

Distance: 720 km (447 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 12 min

Departure: BSL (47.59, 7.5291667)

Arrival: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)

Route Type: International

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