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NCL destination photo
LGW destination photo

NCLLGW

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

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The Left Side is the winner for this route as it offers stunning views of the North Sea coastline, the intricate patterns of the Humber Estuary, and a superior perspective of the London skyline during the descent into Gatwick.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

North Sea Coastline

Panoramic views of the rugged Northeast coast shortly after takeoff from Newcastle.

🌳

North York Moors

Expansive views of the purple heather and wild moorlands of North Yorkshire.

🌉

Humber Bridge

The massive suspension bridge crossing the Humber Estuary is a clear landmark at cruising altitude.

🐚

The Wash

Distinctive rectangular bay and salt marshes on the edge of East Anglia.

🏙️

London Skyline

On the descent, the Shard and Canary Wharf are often visible to the east when approaching from the north.

Book an early morning flight for the best lighting over the North Sea. Watch for the dramatic change in water color as you cross the Humber Estuary. During the Gatwick approach, keep your eyes peeled for the Thames Estuary and the dense urban sprawl of East London.

Right Side Highlights
6.5
👼

Angel of the North

Antony Gormley's iconic sculpture is visible shortly after departure near Gateshead.

⛪

Durham Cathedral

The Romanesque towers of the cathedral sit prominently on its peninsula in the River Wear.

⛰️

The Peak District

Rolling limestone valleys and gritstone ridges of England's first national park.

🌲

Sherwood Forest

Dense patches of ancient woodland visible as the flight passes over the East Midlands.

🌄

Surrey Hills

Verdant ridges and wooded valleys of the North Downs as the plane aligns for Gatwick.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. Keep a close eye out immediately after takeoff; if the plane banks south, you'll get a perfect view of Durham's historic center. This side also offers a better view of Heathrow's traffic stack when nearing London.

Top Activities in London
Route Information

Distance: 444 km (276 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 44 min

Departure: NCL (55.037498474121094, -1.6916699409484863)

Arrival: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)

Route Type: Domestic

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