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LCY destination photo
ZRH destination photo

LCYZRH

Which side of the plane to sit from London City Airport (London) to Zürich Airport (Zurich)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior panoramic experience, featuring iconic London landmarks shortly after takeoff and a spectacular approach toward Zurich with the Swiss Alps dominating the southern horizon.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🎡

Central London

If taking off to the west, expect incredible views of the Shard, the Tower of London, and the London Eye.

🌊

English Channel

Clear views of the busy shipping lanes and the white cliffs near Dover as you cross into mainland Europe.

⛰️

Vosges Mountains

The rolling peaks of the Vosges in eastern France providing a dramatic landscape before entering Swiss airspace.

🏔️

Swiss Alps

On approach to Zurich, the snow-capped Bernese and Glarus Alps provide a stunning backdrop to the south.

🛶

Lake Zurich

The long, crescent-shaped lake stretching away from the city center during the final landing configuration.

Book a window seat behind the wing to capture the Alps without engine obstruction. Afternoon flights offer the best 'golden hour' lighting on the mountain peaks. Watch for the 'steep approach' typical of LCY departures for unique photo angles.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Canary Wharf

Unrivaled views of London's financial district skyscrapers immediately after takeoff from LCY's short runway.

🏗️

Dartford Crossing

The massive QEII Bridge and tunnels marking the gateway to the Thames Estuary as you climb.

🌲

Black Forest

The dense, dark greenery of the German Schwarzwald visible to the north during the initial descent into Switzerland.

💧

Rhine River

The winding silver ribbon of the High Rhine forming the natural border between Germany and Switzerland.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. This side is also better if the flight path tracks further north, offering glimpses of Lake Constance (Bodensee) in the distance.

Top Activities in Zurich
Route Information

Distance: 760 km (472 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 16 min

Departure: LCY (51.505299, 0.055277999999999994)

Arrival: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Route Type: International

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