Loading map...
LGW → BOD
Which side of the plane to sit from London Gatwick Airport (London) to Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (Bordeaux)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior scenic experience, featuring the dramatic Atlantic coastline, the historic D-Day landing beaches, and the world-renowned Médoc vineyards during the final approach into Bordeaux.
Search flights from LGW to BOD
Isle of Wight
Depending on the departure route, clear views of the Solent and the needles may be visible to the west.
Normandy Landing Beaches
Historical D-Day sites including Gold, Juno, and Sword beaches along the northern French coast.
La Rochelle & Islands
Stunning views of Île de Ré and its massive bridge, alongside the oyster-rich waters of Île d'Oléron.
Gironde Estuary
The massive estuary where the Garonne and Dordogne rivers merge, showcasing unique silt patterns.
Médoc Wine Estates
Unrivaled views of the world's most famous vineyards, including Pauillac and Margaux, during the final descent.
Choose the right side for afternoon or evening flights to experience the sunset over the Bay of Biscay. This side is geographically superior for spotting the coastal islands near La Rochelle. During the descent, look for the 'route des châteaux' which follows the Gironde estuary into the airport area.
Book Hotels in Bordeaux
Sussex White Cliffs
Aerial views of the iconic Seven Sisters and the English Channel shortly after departure from Gatwick.
Alabaster Coast
The high chalk cliffs of Normandy near Dieppe as the plane crosses into French territory.
Loire Valley Châteaux
Glimpses of the winding Loire River and historic estates as you fly south toward the Aquitaine region.
Saint-Émilion Vineyards
Rolling hills and the dense vineyards of the Right Bank just minutes before touchdown.
The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight glare. It provides the best perspective of the South Downs immediately after takeoff and a clear view of the historic town of Saint-Émilion on the final approach. Keep an eye out for the Garonne river winding through the landscape as you descend.
Get eSIMs for United Kingdom
Get eSIMs for FranceDistance: 704 km (437 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 10 min
Departure: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)
Arrival: BOD (44.8283004761, -0.7155560255050001)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.