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MAH destination photo
BHX destination photo

MAHBHX

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the Spanish coastline near Barcelona, the most dramatic peaks of the Pyrenees, and a scenic approach over the English Midlands.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Barcelona Skyline

On clear days, see the Sagrada Familia and the distinct Eixample grid pattern as you cross the Spanish coast.

🏔️

The Pyrenees

Spectacular views of high-altitude glacial peaks and valleys marking the border between Spain and France.

🏰

Loire Valley

The 'Garden of France,' dotted with historic chateaux and the winding silver ribbon of the Loire River.

🚢

English Channel

Views of the world's busiest shipping lanes and the white cliffs of the southern UK coast near the Isle of Wight.

🏙️

London in the Distance

On a clear descent, you can often spot the Shard and the London skyline to the southeast before turning toward Birmingham.

The right side is the 'mountain side'; keep your camera ready about 25-35 minutes after takeoff for the Pyrenees. For the best lighting on the mountains, choose a morning or midday flight. As you approach BHX, look for the sprawling urban landscape of the West Midlands contrasting with the red-brick architecture of Coventry.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏝️

Port Mahon

Aerial view of the deep natural harbor and the historic fortifications of Menorca's capital shortly after takeoff.

🌊

Gulf of Lion

Panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline stretching toward Montpellier and the Rhone Delta.

🌋

Massif Central

The rugged, volcanic plateau of south-central France, featuring ancient craters and deep gorges.

⛵

Bristol Channel

Glances of the Severn Estuary and the varied coastline of the South West as you enter English airspace.

🌳

The Cotswolds

Rolling green hills and limestone villages characteristic of the English countryside during the final descent.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun over France. Watch for the dramatic change from the blue Mediterranean to the green landscapes of rural France. During the final approach into BHX, the left side often gets a clearer view of the Malvern Hills if the wind is from the north.

Top Activities in Birmingham
Route Information

Distance: 1,472 km (915 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 58 min

Departure: MAH (39.86259841918945, 4.2186498641967765)

Arrival: BHX (52.4538993835, -1.7480299472799998)

Route Type: International

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