Loading map...

MUC destination photo
LGW destination photo

MUCLGW

Which side of the plane to sit from Munich Airport (Munich) to London Gatwick Airport (London)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior sequence of landscapes, featuring the winding Rhine River, the dense Ardennes, and a frequent spectacular view of the London skyline during the Gatwick approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
💧

Rhine River

A stunning view of the major European waterway as it snakes through the industrial and vineyard-rich valleys.

⛰️

Ardennes Forest

The rugged terrain and deep valleys of the Ardennes region spanning across Belgium and Luxembourg.

⚓

North Sea Coast

Views of the Belgian and Dutch coastlines, including the busy ports and offshore wind farms.

🎡

London Skyline

During a standard approach (Runway 26), you can often see The Shard, Canary Wharf, and the London Eye to the north.

🌄

Surrey Hills

The Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty provides a scenic, lush green backdrop just moments before touchdown.

The right side is the 'money side' for London spotting. Most flights land facing west (Runway 26), placing Central London to your right during the arrival sequence. For the best views of the Rhine, keep your eyes peeled about 20-30 minutes after departure. Late afternoon flights offer beautiful golden hour lighting over the English countryside.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏔️

Bavarian Alps

Distant but sharp views of the snow-capped Alpine range to the south immediately after takeoff from Munich.

🌲

Black Forest

The dense, dark evergreen canopy of the Schwarzwald visible as the flight traverses Southwestern Germany.

🌊

English Channel

The transition from mainland Europe to the British Isles, often dotted with cargo ships and ferries.

⚪

White Cliffs of Dover

If the flight path takes a southerly track over the coast, the iconic chalk cliffs near Eastbourne are visible.

🌳

South Downs

Rolling green hills and ancient woodlands of the National Park during the final descent into Gatwick.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun glare. This side is also better for catching the distant silhouette of the Alps. Look out for the French coastline near Dieppe before the Channel crossing. In winter, the contrast between the white cliffs and the dark sea is particularly striking.

Top Activities in London
Route Information

Distance: 914 km (568 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 31 min

Departure: MUC (48.353802, 11.7861)

Arrival: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.