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GLA → MAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Glasgow International Airport (Glasgow) to Manchester Airport (Manchester)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is superior on this short hop as it offers direct views over the stunning Lake District National Park and the rugged Southern Uplands, whereas the right side primarily sees the Irish Sea.
Glasgow Skyline
Aerial views of the River Clyde, the SEC Armadillo, and the sprawling city grid during initial climb.
Southern Uplands
The rolling green hills and deep valleys of Dumfries and Galloway stretching toward the border.
The Lake District
Unrivaled views of Windermere, Ullswater, and the peaks of Helvellyn and Scafell Pike.
Solway Firth
The dramatic tidal flats and estuaries marking the border between Scotland and England.
Greater Manchester
On the final approach, look for the Etihad Stadium and the dense urban center of Manchester.
Sit on the left for the most dramatic mountain scenery. For morning flights, the sun will be on this side, so bring sunglasses, but the light illuminates the Lake District peaks perfectly. The flight is very short (under 45 minutes), so stay alert immediately after the seatbelt sign is turned off.
Firth of Clyde
Views of the Isle of Arran and the volcanic plug of Ailsa Craig rising from the water.
Isle of Man
On clear days, the silhouette of Snaefell mountain is visible across the Irish Sea.
Blackpool Tower
The iconic Victorian structure and the Pleasure Beach rollercoasters are visible on the Lancashire coast.
Fylde Coast
The flat, agricultural landscapes of Lancashire as the plane begins its descent into Manchester.
The right side is best for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Irish Sea. It provides a better perspective of the coastline and the Irish Sea's wind farms. Keep an eye out for the distinctive Blackpool shoreline as you cross the Ribble Estuary.
Distance: 313 km (194 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 31 min
Departure: GLA (55.8718986511, -4.43306016922)
Arrival: MAN (53.35369873046875, -2.2749500274658203)
Route Type: Domestic
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