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MAN → SOU
Which side of the plane to sit from Manchester Airport (Manchester) to Southampton Airport (Southampton)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a classic tour of Middle England, featuring the rolling Cotswolds, the historic spires of Oxford, and the ancient city of Winchester during the descent.
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Peak District Edge
Just after departure, catch the western fringes of this National Park's rugged moorlands.
Birmingham Skyline
Aerial views of the UK's second city, including the iconic Bullring and industrial architecture.
The Cotswolds
Vast stretches of Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty characterized by rolling green hills.
Oxford Spires
The historic university city is visible with its distinctive architectural skyline.
Winchester Cathedral
One of the largest cathedrals in Europe is clearly visible as the plane begins its final approach.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the glare of the eastern sun. About 20 minutes into the flight, watch for the geometric patterns of the Cotswold fields. This side is particularly scenic in autumn when the deciduous forests change color.
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Cheshire Plain
Flat, lush agricultural landscapes immediately following takeoff from Manchester.
Malvern Hills
A dramatic north-south ridge that rises sharply from the surrounding flat Severn Valley.
Salisbury Plain
A vast chalk plateau; on very clear days, you may spot the circular outline of Stonehenge.
New Forest
A patchwork of ancient woodland and heathland appearing just west of the flight path near SOU.
Southampton Docks
Views of massive cruise liners and cargo ships if the plane circles for a southern approach.
The right side is the 'sunset side' for late afternoon flights, offering golden hour views over the Welsh borders in the distance. During the descent, look out for the white chalk scars of quarries and ancient hill forts on the Salisbury Plain.
Book Hotels in SouthamptonDistance: 274 km (170 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 27 min
Departure: MAN (53.35369873046875, -2.2749500274658203)
Arrival: SOU (50.95029830932617, -1.3567999601364136)
Route Type: Domestic
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