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CPT → LHR
Which side of the plane to sit from Cape Town International Airport (Cape Town) to London Heathrow Airport (London)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is the winner for this iconic route, offering a final glimpse of Table Mountain upon departure and providing the best chance of seeing the central London skyline during the standard approach into Heathrow.
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Table Mountain
An unbeatable view of Cape Town's iconic flat-topped mountain immediately after takeoff.
Sahara Heart
Views of the central Sahara's unique geological structures and deep orange sand seas.
The Pyrenees
The snow-capped border between Spain and France often visible in crystal clarity.
French Loire Valley
The green, chateau-dotted landscape of central France as you head toward the Channel.
London Landmarks
On the 'River Approach' to LHR, see the London Eye, The Shard, and Tower Bridge.
Sit on the right side for the most famous arrival view in aviation. Most flights land facing west; if so, the right side looks directly over the Thames and central London. Keep your camera ready for the first 10 minutes after takeoff from CPT for Table Mountain.
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Atlantic Coastline
Dramatic views of the western African coast where the desert meets the deep blue ocean.
Western Sahara
The vast, undulating dunes and rocky plateaus of the western Sahara desert expanses.
Atlantic Sunset
On evening departures, this side provides front-row seats to the sun setting over the water.
Atlas Mountains
The western ridges of the Moroccan mountain range as the flight transitions into Europe.
Windsor Castle
On certain westerly landing patterns into LHR, the left side can glimpse the royal residence.
Choose the left side for sunset views over the Atlantic if you are on a night flight departing Cape Town in the late afternoon. This side is also excellent for avoiding direct glare during the midday sun when flying north.
Get eSIMs for South Africa
Get eSIMs for United KingdomDistance: 9,681 km (6,015 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 11 hrs 23 min
Departure: CPT (-33.9648017883, 18.6016998291)
Arrival: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)
Route Type: International
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