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LHR destination photo
RDU destination photo

LHRRDU

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side is generally superior for this transatlantic crossing, offering an iconic view of Windsor Castle shortly after takeoff and the highest probability of seeing the dramatic Greenland icecap or the rugged Newfoundland coastline.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🏰

Windsor Castle

A spectacular view of the historic royal residence located just west of Heathrow, visible almost immediately after takeoff.

🧊

Greenland Icecap

On northerly Great Circle tracks, you can see the jagged peaks and vast glaciers of southern Greenland.

🌲

Newfoundland Wilderness

Aerial views of the pristine lakes, rocky inlets, and dense boreal forests of Atlantic Canada.

🔬

Research Triangle Park

Detailed views of the corporate campuses and dense forests of Durham and Morrisville during the final approach to RDU.

To see Windsor Castle, try to book a seat on the right when the wind is blowing from the west (standard LHR departure). For the best chance of seeing Greenland, check the flight path on a tracker before boarding; more northerly routes favor this side for Arctic views. The right side also provides excellent views of the Research Triangle's unique 'city in a forest' layout during landing.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏙️

London City Skyline

Clear views of the Thames River and central London landmarks like the London Eye and the Shard during the initial climb.

🌊

Celtic Sea Transition

The dramatic shift from the green fields of Southwest England to the deep blue of the North Atlantic Ocean.

🏖️

Cape Cod Hook

The distinctive geographic curl of the Massachusetts coastline is often visible as the flight enters US airspace.

🐚

Pamlico Sound

During the final descent, views of the inner North Carolina coastline and the expansive sounds behind the Outer Banks.

The left side is the best choice if you enjoy coastal geography. As you approach the US, look out for the transition from the rocky New England coast to the sandy barriers of the Mid-Atlantic. In winter, this side receives more direct sunlight, making the cabin warmer and brighter.

Top Activities in Raleigh-durham
Route Information

Distance: 6,216 km (3,862 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 19 min

Departure: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)

Arrival: RDU (35.877601623535156, -78.7874984741211)

Route Type: International

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