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PDL destination photo
LGW destination photo

PDLLGW

Our Recommendation
8.5

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌋

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.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

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.

Top Activities in London
Route Information

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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