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LBALHR

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

While this is a short domestic hop, the Left Side is generally preferred for the iconic aerial panorama of Central London during the approach into Heathrow, especially during the common westerly landing patterns.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Sheffield Skyline

Visible shortly after departure, offering a clear view of the 'Steel City' and its unique hilly urban topography.

🏟️

East Midlands Urban Centers

Look out for the urban sprawls of Nottingham and Leicester as the flight traverses the center of England.

🎡

Central London Panorama

On a standard westerly approach (landing towards the west), this side offers world-class views of the Shard, Tower Bridge, and the Thames.

🌉

Dartford Crossing

If the flight is vectored through the eastern holding stacks, you will see the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge spanning the Thames.

To maximize your chances of seeing the London skyline, hope for westerly winds which are the norm. Morning flights provide excellent lighting on the city below. The flight is very short (approx. 40-50 minutes), so keep your window shade up from takeoff to landing.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
⛰️

The Peak District

Immediately after takeoff, enjoy the rolling green hills, limestone dales, and reservoirs of this stunning National Park.

🏢

The West Midlands

In the distance, you can often spot the dense urban area of Birmingham and the surrounding Black Country.

🌳

The Chiltern Hills

An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty characterized by chalk hills and dense beech woodlands just north of London.

🏰

Windsor Castle

A highlight on final approach; when landing from the west, the castle is clearly visible as you descend toward the runway.

The right side is superior for nature lovers, particularly for the early views of the Peak District. If the aircraft lands from the east (easterly operations), the right side will be the one facing Central London. Always check the weather; clear skies are essential for this low-altitude route.

Top Activities in London
Route Information

Distance: 278 km (173 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 28 min

Departure: LBA (53.86589813232422, -1.6605700254440308)

Arrival: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)

Route Type: Domestic

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