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RIX → LTN
Which side of the plane to sit from Riga International Airport (Riga) to London Luton Airport (London)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the Latvian coastline upon departure, a more frequent perspective of the Dutch polders, and a high probability of spotting the London skyline during the final approach into Luton.
Jurmala Coastline
Shortly after takeoff from Riga, enjoy views of the long white-sand beaches and the dense pine forests of the Gulf of Riga.
Hamburg & Northern Germany
Depending on the specific airway, you can often see the sprawling port city of Hamburg and the Elbe River snaking through the landscape.
Dutch Polders
As you cross the Netherlands, the left side provides a clear view of the intricate network of canals, reclaimed land, and organized agricultural patterns.
London Skyline
During the descent into Luton, if the aircraft approaches from the south or executes a wide pattern, the Shard and London Eye are visible on the horizon.
Hertfordshire Countryside
Final approach views include the rolling green hills and traditional English villages surrounding the airport.
For the best lighting, choose the left side on morning flights to have the sun behind you. This side is also strategically better for seeing London's city lights during late evening arrivals. Watch for the sharp contrast between the Baltic Sea and the Latvian mainland immediately after the 'ding' of the landing gear retraction.
Baltic Sea Transit
A vast expanse of deep blue water, often dotted with cargo ships heading toward the Port of Riga or Stockholm.
Frisian Islands
Excellent views of the Wadden Sea and the chain of islands protecting the coast of Germany and the Netherlands.
Offshore Wind Farms
Spot the massive arrays of wind turbines in the North Sea, appearing as tiny white dots in organized grids.
East Anglian Coast
See the Suffolk and Norfolk coastline as the plane makes landfall in the UK, often passing near Great Yarmouth.
The right side is ideal for evening flights to catch the sunset over the North Sea. It offers a clearer view of the Frisian Islands chain. If the plane lands on Runway 08 (facing east), the right side will provide a scenic view of the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty just before touchdown.
Distance: 1,662 km (1,033 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 13 min
Departure: RIX (56.92359924316406, 23.971099853515625)
Arrival: LTN (51.87469863891602, -0.36833301186561584)
Route Type: International
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