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CGN → BHX
Which side of the plane to sit from Cologne Bonn Airport (Cologne) to Birmingham International Airport (Birmingham)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the Rhine valley upon departure and better opportunities to spot the London skyline in the distance as you traverse the English Midlands.
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Cologne Cathedral & Rhine
Immediately after takeoff, catch the towering spires of the Kölner Dom and the winding Rhine River cutting through the city.
Port of Antwerp
As you cross the Belgian border, the massive docks and industrial infrastructure of one of Europe's largest ports are visible.
Thames Estuary
Entering UK airspace, the dramatic widening of the Thames where it meets the North Sea provides a distinct geographic landmark.
Distant London Skyline
On clear days, the cluster of skyscrapers in the City and Canary Wharf can be seen to the south.
Warwickshire Countryside
The final descent offers classic views of the 'Heart of England' with its patchworked green fields and historic estates.
Sit on the left for the best city views of Cologne at the start. Since this is a westward flight, the left side faces south; if flying in the middle of the day, expect significant sun glare. Morning or late afternoon flights provide the best lighting for photography on this side.
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The Ruhr Area
To the north, the sprawling industrial landscape of Germany's most populous metropolitan region is visible.
Dutch Delta Works
View the impressive coastal engineering and dams of the Netherlands' Zeeland province near the coast.
North Sea Wind Farms
Vast arrays of offshore wind turbines create a striking geometric pattern on the water's surface.
Coventry Cathedral
During the approach to Birmingham, the modern spire and the ruins of the old Coventry Cathedral are clearly visible.
NEC and Resorts World
On final approach to Runway 33, the massive exhibition halls of the NEC are located directly adjacent to the airfield.
The right side is ideal for passengers who want to avoid the sun's glare, as it faces north throughout the flight. This side offers excellent views of the Dutch coastline and the industrial heart of the UK Midlands during the descent into BHX.
Book Hotels in BirminghamDistance: 638 km (396 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 4 min
Departure: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)
Arrival: BHX (52.4538993835, -1.7480299472799998)
Route Type: International
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