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IAH → AMS
Which side of the plane to sit from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this transatlantic route as it offers the highest probability of viewing the Greenland ice sheet, potential Icelandic landscapes, and the Aurora Borealis during the night portion of the flight.
Canadian Maritimes
Aerial views of the rugged coastline of Newfoundland and the vast Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Greenland Ice Cap
On northerly tracks, the massive glaciers and deep fjords of southern Greenland are visible.
Aurora Borealis
The best side to observe the Northern Lights during the dark transatlantic crossing in winter months.
Icelandic Coast
Depending on the jet stream, you may pass near Iceland's volcanic mountains and glaciers.
North Sea Wind Farms
Massive offshore wind arrays visible as the flight approaches the Dutch coastline.
Book a window seat on the left for the best chance of spotting the Aurora Borealis during the middle of the night. Use a flight tracking app to see if your specific day's route passes over Greenland, as these are the most spectacular views. On arrival, the left side often provides a better view of the North Sea's industrial infrastructure.
Atlantic Sunrise
Dramatic sunrise views over the horizon as the plane travels eastward toward morning.
US East Coast Cities
Distances views of the lights from major hubs like Boston or New York depending on the departure path.
English Channel
Heavy maritime traffic and cargo ships entering one of the world's busiest shipping lanes.
Dutch Polders
The unique, geometric landscape of reclaimed land and canals typical of the Netherlands.
Port of Rotterdam
One of the world's largest ports is often visible on the descent into Schiphol.
The right side is the 'sunny side' of the plane; expect bright morning light which can be intense for sleeping but great for sunrise photography. During descent into AMS, the right side often offers a clear view of the sprawling Dutch polders and the intricate network of dikes and canals that define the country's geography.
Distance: 8,049 km (5,001 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 28 min
Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Arrival: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)
Route Type: International
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