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LGW → PDL
Which side of the plane to sit from London Gatwick Airport (London) to João Paulo II Airport (Ponta Delgada)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally superior for this route as it offers the best views of the English coastline after departure and provides a more dramatic perspective of São Miguel's volcanic terrain and northern cliffs during the descent into the Azores.
Sussex Coastline
Immediately after takeoff from Gatwick, enjoy views of the rolling South Downs and the white chalk cliffs near the English Channel.
Isle of Wight
Look out for the distinct diamond shape of the island and the iconic Needles rock formation as you head toward the Atlantic.
Bay of Biscay
Cross the deep blue waters of the North Atlantic where the continental shelf drops off, often revealing dramatic sea patterns.
Sete Cidades Massif
During the descent into PDL, the left side often captures the massive volcanic craters and the twin blue and green lakes.
São Miguel North Shore
View the rugged, lush green cliffs and small coastal villages of the island's northern edge during the final approach pattern.
Choose a seat forward of the wing (Rows 1-10) to ensure an unobstructed view of the volcanic craters on descent. For afternoon flights, the sun will be on the opposite side of the aircraft, providing perfectly front-lit views of the English coast and the Azorean landscape without glare.
English Channel Shipping
Observe one of the world's busiest maritime passages, filled with cargo ships and ferries crossing between the UK and France.
Brittany Horizon
On clear days, the westernmost tip of France (Brittany) can be spotted as a faint silhouette on the distant horizon.
Azores High Clouds
Witness the unique 'Azores High' meteorological formations, creating stunning sea-level cloud carpets over the Atlantic Ocean.
Ponta Delgada Cityscape
The right side offers a direct view of the capital city's white-washed buildings and red-tiled roofs as the plane aligns with the runway.
Port of Ponta Delgada
Get a clear view of the bustling harbor, the breakwater, and any cruise ships or transatlantic yachts docked in the marina.
The right side is ideal for travelers who want to see the urban layout of Ponta Delgada and the harbor during the final seconds before landing. On morning flights, this side will be in the shade for the first half of the journey, making it easier to spot ships on the water without sun interference.
Distance: 2,493 km (1,549 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 19 min
Departure: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)
Arrival: PDL (37.7411994934, -25.6979007721)
Route Type: International
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