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LIS β LGW
Which side of the plane to sit from Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisbon Portela Airport) (Lisbon) to London Gatwick Airport (London)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic Atlantic coastline of Portugal, the rugged 'Rias' of Galicia in Spain, and a clear view of the Isle of Wight upon entering UK airspace.
Sintra & Cascais
Shortly after takeoff from Lisbon, look down to see the Pena Palace perched on the Sintra mountains and the Estoril coastline.
Portuguese Silver Coast
Continuous views of the Atlantic surf crashing against the cliffs of Peniche and NazarΓ©.
Galician Rias
The deep, fjord-like coastal inlets of Northwest Spain offer a jagged and beautiful landscape.
Brittany Peninsula
As you cross the Bay of Biscay, the westernmost tip of France around Brest becomes visible.
Isle of Wight
A perfect aerial view of the diamond-shaped island and the Needles chalk formations during the descent.
For the most dramatic lighting on the Portuguese cliffs, choose an afternoon flight when the sun is in the west. If departing LIS on Runway 35, you will see Sintra almost immediately. Keep your camera ready as you cross the English Channel to capture the distinct coastline of southern England.
Vasco da Gama Bridge
A view of Europe's longest bridge spanning the Tagus Estuary during the initial climb.
Inland Portugal
Vast views of the Alentejo and Ribatejo plains stretching toward the Spanish border.
Normandy Coast
If the flight path tracks slightly east, you can spot the D-Day landing beaches and the Cotentin Peninsula.
Portsmouth & Spinnaker
Clear views of the historic dockyards and the landmark Spinnaker Tower as the plane turns toward Gatwick.
South Downs National Park
The rolling green hills and chalk ridges of Sussex during the final approach into London Gatwick.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. It offers a better view of the French coast if the aircraft takes a more easterly route over Normandy. During the final descent, this side often provides a broader view of the English countryside and the suburban sprawl of the South East.
Distance: 1,542 km (958 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 3 min
Departure: LIS (38.7813, -9.13592)
Arrival: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)
Route Type: International
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