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MAD destination photo
LCY destination photo

MADLCY

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is the clear winner for this route, offering a spectacular front-row seat to London's iconic landmarks during the uniquely steep approach into London City Airport.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🏰

Segovia Landmarks

Potential sightings of the historic Alcázar and Roman aqueduct as the plane heads north through Castile.

🐚

Basque Country

Beautiful views of the coastline near San Sebastián where the Pyrenees mountains descend into the sea.

⛪

Mont Saint-Michel

The famous medieval abbey on its tidal island is often visible as the plane tracks across the French coast.

🏙️

Canary Wharf

Intense, close-up views of London's financial district skyscrapers during the final descent.

🎡

The O2 Arena

An incredible bird's-eye view of the white-domed arena and the Thames loop just before touchdown.

This is arguably one of the most scenic approaches in Europe. For the best experience, ensure you have a window seat clear of the wing. The highlight occurs in the final five minutes of the flight; if landing on Runway 09, you will fly directly past the Shard and Tower Bridge. Even on a Runway 27 approach, the right side captures the beauty of the Thames Estuary and the Dartford Crossing.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
⛰️

Sierra de Guadarrama

Rugged peaks and deep valleys of the mountain range north of Madrid visible shortly after takeoff.

🌊

Bay of Biscay

Deep blue views of the Atlantic Ocean as the flight crosses from the Spanish coast toward France.

⚓

Brittany Coastline

The dramatic, jagged western edge of France featuring numerous small islands and coastal inlets.

🚢

South Coast Ports

Views of the English Channel and the bustling shipping lanes approaching the south of England.

The left side is preferable for morning flights to minimize sun glare while viewing the Spanish interior. Keep an eye out for the Isle of Wight as you cross into English airspace. For the arrival, while the right side is more famous, the left side offers a unique perspective of the sprawl of South London and the Olympic Park depending on the approach path.

Top Activities in London
Route Information

Distance: 1,258 km (782 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 41 min

Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)

Arrival: LCY (51.505299, 0.055277999999999994)

Route Type: International

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