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LHR → MAA
Which side of the plane to sit from London Heathrow Airport (London) to Chennai International Airport (Madras)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior departure experience with views of Central London and a spectacular entry into the Indian subcontinent over the Western Ghats.
Central London Landmarks
Post-takeoff views often include the Thames, the London Eye, and the Shard depending on the departure path.
The Alps
On clear days, the distant jagged peaks of the European Alps are visible across Central Europe.
Zagros Mountains
Incredible folded rock formations and desert landscapes across Iran.
Arabian Sea Coast
The transition from the deep ocean to the sandy beaches of the Indian west coast near Goa.
Western Ghats
Lush green mountain ridges and tropical forests as the plane crosses into South India.
For the best chance of seeing London's iconic skyline, choose the right side, as LHR departures frequently loop south and east. This side also stays in the shade during the final morning approach into Chennai, offering cooler cabin temperatures and clearer views of the Western Ghats roughly 90 minutes before touchdown.
North London Suburbs
Aerial views of the Olympic Park and the urban sprawl of North London during the initial climb.
Black Sea Coastline
Clear views of the northern Turkish coast and the deep blue waters of the Black Sea.
Caucasus Mountains
Spectacular snow-capped peaks spanning the border between Europe and Asia.
Caspian Sea
The vast expanse of the world's largest inland body of water and the oil fields of Azerbaijan.
Northern Deccan Plateau
Intricate patterns of Indian agriculture and the winding Krishna River during the descent.
The left side is ideal for catching the sunrise as you head east towards India. Since many LHR-MAA flights are overnight, expect the sun to rise on this side about 2-3 hours before landing. Use a window shade to manage the intense early morning glare while over the Deccan Plateau.
Distance: 8,235 km (5,117 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 41 min
Departure: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)
Arrival: MAA (12.990005493164062, 80.16929626464844)
Route Type: International
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