Loading map...

MAA destination photo
LHR destination photo

MAALHR

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is generally superior for this route as it offers dramatic desert landscapes over the Middle East and typically provides the iconic 'London Eye' view of central London during the final approach into Heathrow.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Western Ghats

Lush, forested mountain ranges of Southern India shortly after departure from Chennai.

🏜️

Rub' al Khali

The vast, rolling orange dunes of the Arabian Peninsula's Empty Quarter.

🌊

Mesopotamian Basin

The winding paths of the historic Tigris and Euphrates rivers through Iraq.

🏔️

Carpathian Mountains

Dramatic, snow-capped peaks visible as the flight crosses into Eastern Europe.

🎡

Central London Skyline

Premier views of the Thames, Tower Bridge, and the City during the standard LHR arrival.

Book an early morning flight to see the sun rising over the Indian subcontinent. If landing towards the west (Runway 27L/R), sit on the left for the best chance of seeing Central London landmarks like Big Ben and the Shard. Avoid seats over the wing to ensure clear views of the Iraqi river systems.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🏖️

Konkan Coastline

The beautiful meeting point of the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea.

🏙️

Persian Gulf Cities

Glittering views of Dubai or Abu Dhabi skylines depending on the specific air corridor.

🗻

Taurus Mountains

Rugged, high-altitude terrain and turquoise lakes in Eastern Turkey.

🌊

Black Sea Coast

The transition from the Turkish coastline into the European airspace.

🏰

Windsor Castle

A close-up view of the historic royal residence seconds before touching down at Heathrow.

The right side is ideal for capturing the glitz of the Gulf states and the rugged beauty of the Turkish Highlands. During the winter months, this side often gets better lighting for photography as the sun stays lower in the southern sky. It also offers a fantastic view of Windsor Castle on the final descent.

Top Activities in London
Route Information

Distance: 8,235 km (5,117 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 41 min

Departure: MAA (12.990005493164062, 80.16929626464844)

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.