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HAM destination photo
MAN destination photo

HAMMAN

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

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers spectacular views of the Elbe estuary leaving Germany and the visually stunning Wadden Sea islands, followed by the Humber Bridge and a likely view of Manchester's skyline on descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🚢

Port of Hamburg

One of Europe's largest container ports with massive ships and the Elbe river winding toward the sea.

🏝️

Wadden Sea Islands

The chain of East Frisian Islands like Norderney and Juist, featuring stunning tidal sand patterns.

🌬️

North Sea Wind Farms

Massive offshore wind installations appearing as white dots against the deep blue North Sea.

🌉

Humber Bridge

The massive suspension bridge crossing the Humber estuary as the aircraft enters British airspace near Hull.

🏙️

Manchester City Centre

A fantastic view of the Beetham Tower and Deansgate Square skyscrapers as the plane turns for its final approach.

Choose the right side for morning flights to get the best lighting on the Frisian Islands. The Wadden Sea is a UNESCO World Heritage site and looks best during low tide when the sandbanks are exposed. Keep your camera ready as you cross the English coast near the Humber estuary for iconic infrastructure views.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Alster Lakes

A clear view of the Outer and Inner Alster lakes in the heart of Hamburg immediately after takeoff.

🚜

Dutch Polders

Geometrically perfect reclaimed land and drainage canals visible as you fly over the northern Netherlands.

⛰️

Peak District

The rolling green hills, moorlands, and reservoirs of the UK's first National Park during the initial descent.

🏟️

Old Trafford Stadium

Often visible on the final approach into Manchester when landing from the east (Runway 23).

🌳

Cheshire Plain

The lush, pastoral landscapes south of Greater Manchester visible just before touchdown.

Sit on the left for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun which will be to the south and west. This side is superior for spotting the iconic football stadiums of Manchester if the wind is blowing from the west, forcing an approach over the city.

Top Activities in Manchester
Route Information

Distance: 811 km (504 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min

Departure: HAM (53.630401611328, 9.988229751586902)

Arrival: MAN (53.35369873046875, -2.2749500274658203)

Route Type: International

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