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LGW destination photo
ZRH destination photo

LGWZRH

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

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides an iconic approach into Switzerland, offering panoramic views of the Jura Mountains and the snow-capped Swiss Alps to the south as you descend towards Zurich.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏖️

Picardy Coast

The dramatic coastline where northern France meets the English Channel.

🍇

Champagne Region

Famous vineyards and rolling hills of the Champagne-Ardenne area.

⛰️

Jura Mountains

The distinct limestone ridges and plateaus that form the natural border between France and Switzerland.

🏔️

Swiss Alps

Stunning vistas of the high Alpine peaks, including the Eiger and Jungfrau, visible to the south during descent.

🚤

Lake Zurich

Clear views of the long, crescent-shaped lake and Zurich city center during the final landing phase.

Book the right side for the ultimate Alpine experience. Morning flights offer the best lighting on the mountains. Be aware that most landings at ZRH come from the north, so the right side usually gets a sweeping view of the city and lake before touchdown.

Left Side Highlights
6.5
🌊

English Channel

Aerial views of the busy shipping lanes between the UK and France shortly after takeoff from Gatwick.

🌾

French Plains

The geometric patchwork of the Hauts-de-France and Grand Est rural landscapes.

🌲

Vosges Mountains

Dense forest and rounded peaks of the Vosges range in eastern France.

🥨

Black Forest

The edge of the Schwarzwald in Germany visible just north of the Swiss border.

⛴️

Rhine River

The majestic Rhine River winding through the border region before the final approach.

The left side is preferable during late afternoon flights to avoid the direct southern sun. It offers better views of the German landscape and the northern end of the Rhine, providing a softer, diffused light for photography of the landscape.

Top Activities in Zurich
Route Information

Distance: 754 km (469 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 15 min

Departure: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)

Arrival: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Route Type: International

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