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GLA destination photo
CUN destination photo

GLACUN

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side (Starboard) is generally superior for this long-haul route as it avoids the direct southern glare of the sun when flying southwest, and offers potentially spectacular views of the Greenland icecap, the Canadian Maritimes, and the entire US Eastern Seaboard.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Scottish Highlands

Aerial views of the Trossachs and the jagged peaks of the west coast immediately after takeoff.

🧊

Greenland Icecap

Depending on the jet stream, you may pass over the southern tip of Greenland, seeing massive glaciers and icebergs.

🇨🇦

Newfoundland Coast

The wild, rocky inlets and forested terrain of eastern Canada as you make landfall.

🏙️

US East Coast

Distant views of major metropolitan areas like Boston, New York City, and the Jersey Shore.

🚀

Florida Space Coast

Views of Cape Canaveral, the Kennedy Space Center, and the long barrier islands of Florida.

🐊

The Everglades

The unique swampy landscape of Southern Florida before crossing the Gulf of Mexico.

The right side stays in the shade for most of this westbound flight, making it much better for photography. Keep your window blind open about 3-4 hours into the flight for a chance to see Greenland or the Canadian Maritimes. In winter, this side may also provide a glimpse of the aurora borealis if the flight takes a high northern track during the darker months.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🍀

Southern Ireland

Green pastures and the rugged coastline of County Cork and Kerry as you depart the British Isles.

🌊

Deep Atlantic

Expansive views of the North Atlantic, often featuring dramatic cloud formations and ocean shipping lanes.

🇧🇸

The Bahamas

Vibrant turquoise waters and small sandy cays visible as the flight tracks south toward the Caribbean.

🏨

Cancun Hotel Zone

The famous '7' shaped island with high-rise resorts and white sand beaches on final approach.

🏝️

Isla Mujeres

The northern tip of the Yucatan peninsula surrounded by coral reefs and clear blue sea.

While the left side faces the sun (leading to potential heat and glare), it offers the best view of the Cancun Hotel Zone and the Caribbean coastline if the aircraft lands toward the west. Choose this side if you prefer seeing the tropical destination's blue waters during the descent.

Top Activities in Cancun
Route Information

Distance: 7,620 km (4,735 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 58 min

Departure: GLA (55.8718986511, -4.43306016922)

Arrival: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)

Route Type: International

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