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PDL → LGW
Which side of the plane to sit from João Paulo II Airport (Ponta Delgada) to London Gatwick Airport (London)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior sequence of landmarks, including the volcanic beauty of São Miguel upon takeoff, the rugged Brittany coast, and a high probability of seeing the London skyline during the descent into Gatwick.
Sete Cidades Massif
Immediately after takeoff, witness the massive volcanic craters and twin lakes of western São Miguel.
North Atlantic Horizon
Expansive views of the deep blue Atlantic, often featuring dramatic cloud formations and weather fronts.
Brittany Coastline
The rugged, jagged cliffs of western France as the flight crosses from the ocean to the continent.
Mont-Saint-Michel
On clear days, the iconic medieval abbey on its tidal island is visible off the coast of Normandy.
Channel Islands
Aerial views of Jersey and Guernsey as the aircraft transitions toward the English Channel.
Isle of Wight
The diamond-shaped island and the Solent waterway appearing as you approach the UK mainland.
London Skyline
During the descent and final approach, the skyscrapers of Central London are often visible to the north.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the volcanic craters of Sete Cidades shortly after takeoff. For morning flights, this side remains in the shade, providing better lighting for photography of the French and English coastlines. Look for the Isle of Wight as a primary navigation landmark roughly 20 minutes before landing.
Ponta Delgada Harbor
A detailed view of the Azorean capital, its marina, and the distinctive black-and-white architecture.
Southern São Miguel
The lush green slopes and steep coastal cliffs of the island's southern edge.
Bay of Biscay
Observe the heavy maritime traffic in one of the world's busiest shipping corridors.
Normandy Countryside
The classic French 'bocage' landscape of small fields and hedgerows.
Cherbourg Peninsula
The prominent landform of Cotentin jutting out into the English Channel.
South Coast Cliffs
The white chalk cliffs near Brighton and Beachy Head during the arrival sequence.
South Downs
Rolling green hills and ancient woodlands of the English countryside just south of London.
The right side is ideal for seeing Ponta Delgada's city center immediately after departure. If the flight path takes a more easterly route over France, you may see the mouth of the Seine River. During afternoon flights, be prepared for some sun glare on this side while crossing the Atlantic.
Distance: 2,493 km (1,549 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 19 min
Departure: PDL (37.7411994934, -25.6979007721)
Arrival: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)
Route Type: International
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