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GIB destination photo
MAN destination photo

GIBMAN

Which side of the plane to sit from Gibraltar Airport (Gibraltar) to Manchester Airport (Manchester)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides an iconic view of the Rock of Gibraltar upon departure and typically offers superior views of the rugged French coastline and the Welsh mountains during the northern transit.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
⛰️

The Rock of Gibraltar

Unparalleled views of the Jurassic limestone monolith and the city of Gibraltar immediately after takeoff.

🌊

Bay of Gibraltar

View the massive container ships and tankers anchored in the bay and the Spanish port city of Algeciras.

🏜️

Spanish Extremadura

Fly over the rugged, sparsely populated landscapes of western Spain near the border with Portugal.

🏖️

Brittany Coast

Clear views of the jagged Atlantic coastline of France, including the islands near Brest.

⛰️

Snowdonia / Eryri

Dramatic views of the highest peaks in Wales, including Snowdon, as the flight descends into North West England.

Sit on the left for the most dramatic departure; if the wind is from the west, the plane often turns right after takeoff, placing the Rock directly in view. Evening flights are spectacular on this side as the sun sets over the Atlantic. During the approach to Manchester, the left side often sees the Liverpool skyline and the Mersey Estuary.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
☀️

Costa del Sol

Distant views of the Mediterranean coastline as the aircraft climbs and turns toward the north.

🏙️

Seville

Depending on the exact flight path, the historic Andalusian capital is often visible to the east.

🍷

Loire Estuary

The point where France's longest river meets the Atlantic Ocean near Saint-Nazaire.

🏗️

Severn Bridges

The iconic suspension bridges connecting South West England and Wales across the Severn Estuary.

🌲

The Peak District

If approaching Manchester from the south or east, you will see the rolling green hills and moorlands of the national park.

The right side is better for catching early morning light over Spain without direct glare. On the final approach to Manchester (Runway 23R/L), this side often offers a great view of the Cheshire countryside and the outskirts of the Peak District. Keep an eye out for the city of Birmingham as you cross the English Midlands.

Top Activities in Manchester
Route Information

Distance: 1,928 km (1,198 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 34 min

Departure: GIB (36.1511993408, -5.3496599197400005)

Arrival: MAN (53.35369873046875, -2.2749500274658203)

Route Type: International

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