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Which side of the plane to sit from London Heathrow Airport (London) to Brussels Airport (Brussels)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft typically offers the most iconic views, including the central London skyline during departure and the famous White Cliffs of Dover during the Channel crossing.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🎡

Central London Landmarks

Unmatched views of the London Eye, The Shard, and Tower Bridge if the flight path tracks directly over the city center.

⛪

Canterbury Cathedral

The historic pilgrimage site and its surrounding medieval city center can often be spotted amidst the Kent countryside.

⚪

White Cliffs of Dover

The iconic chalk cliffs and the bustling Port of Dover are visible at the narrowest point of the English Channel.

🏘️

Bruges

The well-preserved medieval architecture and concentric canals of Bruges appear as the flight enters West Flanders.

🏢

Brussels Skyline

Panoramic views of the Belgian capital, including the Palace of Justice and the skyscrapers of the Northern Quarter.

The right side is the 'sightseeing' side for London. To see the city best, hope for an Easterly departure (Runway 09). For the best lighting on the White Cliffs, a mid-day flight is ideal. Be aware that the flight is very short (approx. 45-60 minutes), so keep your camera ready from the moment of takeoff.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

North London & Docklands

Aerial views of Wembley Stadium, the Olympic Park, and the sprawling northern suburbs of London shortly after takeoff.

🚢

Thames Estuary

The widening mouth of the River Thames where it meets the North Sea, featuring busy shipping lanes and sandbanks.

🌬️

Offshore Wind Farms

Spectacular views of the London Array, one of the world's largest offshore wind farms, located in the outer Thames Estuary.

🏰

Ghent Cityscape

The medieval towers and winding canals of Ghent are often clearly visible as the plane descends into Belgian airspace.

⚛️

The Atomium

On a northern approach to Brussels Airport, look for the iconic silver spheres of the Atomium landmark.

Choose the left side for evening flights to catch the sunset over the North Sea. This side is also excellent for spotting the intricate patterns of the Flemish polders and the busy port of Zeebrugge in the distance. During winter, morning flights on this side avoid the harshest direct sunlight glare.

Top Activities in Brussels
Route Information

Distance: 350 km (217 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 35 min

Departure: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)

Arrival: BRU (50.9014015198, 4.48443984985)

Route Type: International

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