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GCI destination photo
STN destination photo

GCISTN

Which side of the plane to sit from Guernsey Airport (Guernsey) to London Stansted Airport (London)?

Our Recommendation
7.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers the most iconic landmarks, including a clear view of the Isle of Wight, Portsmouth Harbour, and a sweeping view of the Greater London skyline during the descent into Stansted.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏝️

Isle of Wight

A perfect aerial view of the diamond-shaped island and the famous Needles rock formation.

⚓

Portsmouth Harbour

Spot the Spinnaker Tower and the historic naval dockyards from a high vantage point.

🚢

The Solent

One of the world's busiest waterways, often filled with ferries, yachts, and cargo ships.

🏙️

London Skyline

Panoramic views of the City of London, The Shard, and Canary Wharf skyscrapers to the west.

🌉

Dartford Crossing

The massive QEII Bridge and the Thames estuary are visible during the late stages of the flight.

The right side is superior for coastal landmarks. To see the London skyline clearly, choose a seat behind the wing to ensure your view isn't obstructed during the descent. In late afternoon, the low sun can create beautiful reflections on the Solent and the River Thames.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Alderney Island

The northernmost Channel Island is often visible shortly after departure from Guernsey.

🏖️

Jurassic Coast

Dramatic views of the Dorset coastline and its famous white limestone cliffs as you cross the Channel.

🌳

South Downs

The rolling green hills and ancient woodlands of the South Downs National Park in West Sussex.

🏘️

Heathrow Approach

Distant views of aircraft stacking for Heathrow and the suburban sprawl of the Home Counties.

🌾

Essex Countryside

The patchwork fields of rural Essex as the plane aligns for its final approach into Stansted.

Sit on the left for the best views of the smaller Channel Islands immediately after takeoff. This side is also preferable for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. Look out for the white cliffs of the southern English coast roughly 20 minutes into the flight.

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Route Information

Distance: 338 km (210 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 34 min

Departure: GCI (49.43500137329102, -2.601969957351685)

Arrival: STN (51.8849983215, 0.234999999404)

Route Type: International

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