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RIX → LGW
Which side of the plane to sit from Riga International Airport (Riga) to London Gatwick Airport (London)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side dominates with stunning views of the Frisian Islands, the intricate Dutch coastline, and a high probability of seeing the London skyline during the descent into Gatwick.
Frisian Islands
The stunning chain of islands and tidal flats of the Wadden Sea along the German and Dutch coast.
Dutch Delta Works
Intricate coastal engineering and the reclaimed land of the polders near the IJsselmeer.
Port of Rotterdam
One of the world's largest ports, clearly visible with its massive container terminals and ships.
Thames Estuary
The wide mouth of the River Thames where it meets the North Sea.
London Skyline
A spectacular view of the Shard, the City, and Canary Wharf when the aircraft loops north of Gatwick.
The right side is prime for coastal spotting. Monitor the flight map for the Wadden Sea; the patterns of the sandbars are breathtaking from cruise altitude. If landing at Gatwick from the west (Runway 08), this side offers the most iconic views of the Greater London area during the arrival sequence.
Baltic Coastline
Views of the Curonian Spit and the northern Polish coast shortly after takeoff.
Northern German Plains
A patchwork of agricultural fields and wind farms stretching across Lower Saxony.
Belgian Urban Hubs
Distal views of the dense urban sprawl around Antwerp and Brussels.
The English Channel
The busy shipping lanes of the world's most navigated waterway as you cross towards the UK.
Kentish Weald
The lush green landscapes of the Garden of England during the final descent.
Choosing the left side avoids direct sunlight on afternoon flights, which is ideal for photography. It offers a broader view of the European mainland and the English Channel's maritime traffic. Watch for the white cliffs of Dover appearing in the distance to the south as you enter UK airspace.
Distance: 1,692 km (1,051 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 15 min
Departure: RIX (56.92359924316406, 23.971099853515625)
Arrival: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)
Route Type: International
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