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SEN destination photo
EDI destination photo

SENEDI

Which side of the plane to sit from Southend Airport (Southend) to Edinburgh Airport (Edinburgh)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft offers spectacular coastal views of the North Sea, including historic castles and the iconic Firth of Forth bridges on approach into Edinburgh.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🌊

Thames Estuary

View the shipping lanes and the sprawling mouth of the River Thames immediately after takeoff from Southend.

🐚

The Wash

The distinctive square-shaped bay between Norfolk and Lincolnshire, famous for its mudflats and nature reserves.

🌉

Humber Bridge

Cross over the River Humber and see the massive suspension bridge connecting East Yorkshire to Lincolnshire.

🏰

Bamburgh Castle

If the flight stays coastal over Northumberland, look for this dramatic fortress perched on a basalt outcrop by the sea.

🏝️

Holy Island

Spot Lindisfarne and its causeway, which disappears during high tide, located just off the northeast coast.

🌉

The Forth Bridges

The absolute highlight; see the red cantilever Rail Bridge and the modern Queensferry Crossing over the Firth of Forth.

The right side is the clear winner for scenic views. Request a seat here for the iconic 'Forth Bridge' approach into EDI. In the morning, the sun will be on this side, so bring sunglasses. Watch specifically for the Northumberland coastline, which features some of the UK's most beautiful beaches and castles when flying this route.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏙️

Distant London Skyline

If visibility is high during departure from Southend, catch glimpses of the Shard and Canary Wharf to the southwest.

⛪

Lincoln Cathedral

As you head north over the East Midlands, watch for the massive triple towers of this historic medieval landmark.

⛰️

The Pennines

Look west to see the 'backbone of England' mountain range stretching through the center of the country.

🐑

Scottish Borders

Enjoy the rolling green hills and patchwork fields as you cross the historic border from England into Scotland.

🏰

Edinburgh City Center

On the final descent, the left side often provides a clearer view of the city's historic Old Town and the castle.

Sit on the left for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is ideal for spotting inland landmarks like the Pennines and the Pentland Hills just before landing. If the flight path takes a specific westerly approach, you may get a better look at the city skyline than those on the right.

Top Activities in Edinburgh
Route Information

Distance: 555 km (345 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 56 min

Departure: SEN (51.5713996887207, 0.6955559849739075)

Arrival: EDI (55.95000076293945, -3.372499942779541)

Route Type: Domestic

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