Loading map...
LIS β LHR
Which side of the plane to sit from Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisbon Portela Airport) (Lisbon) to London Heathrow Airport (London)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is the clear winner for this route, primarily due to the iconic 'London Tour' arrival sequence which frequently passes directly over Central London's major landmarks before landing.
Portuguese Silver Coast
Breathtaking views of the rugged Atlantic cliffs and white-sand beaches stretching north from Lisbon.
Bay of Biscay
A vast expanse of deep blue water where you can often spot large container ships and tankers traversing the Atlantic.
Brittany Peninsula
The rocky western tip of France featuring jagged coastlines and picturesque lighthouse outposts.
Central London Skyline
The ultimate highlight; see the London Eye, Shard, and Tower Bridge during the standard approach to Runway 27.
Wembley Stadium
The famous arch of England's national stadium is often visible during the final descent maneuvers.
For the best experience, choose a seat in front of or well behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of London. On morning flights, the sun will be on the right side of the aircraft, providing the left side with soft, glare-free lighting perfect for photography. If the wind is from the west (the most common scenario), the Left Side offers the most famous aerial tour of the city.
Lisbon Cityscape
Immediate views of the historic Alfama district and the 25 de Abril Bridge right after takeoff from LIS.
Vasco da Gama Bridge
View Europe's longest bridge spanning the wide Tagus Estuary as the plane climbs North.
Peneda-GerΓͺs National Park
Look inland to see the lush, mountainous terrain of Portugal's only National Park near the Spanish border.
Isle of Wight
The diamond-shaped island off the south coast of England is a key landmark when crossing the English Channel.
Windsor Castle
On final approach, this massive royal residence is clearly visible just a few miles west of the airport.
The right side is best for the departure phase out of Lisbon, offering the most direct view of the city center. As you approach London, keep your eyes peeled for the Surrey Hills and the South Downs. If the airport is operating on easterly landings (Runway 09), the right side actually becomes the better side for the London skyline views, though this only happens about 30 percent of the time.
Distance: 1,564 km (972 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 5 min
Departure: LIS (38.7813, -9.13592)
Arrival: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.