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SID destination photo
LGW destination photo

SIDLGW

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft offers a spectacular contrast between the deep orange sands of the Sahara and the turquoise Atlantic, followed by a detailed view of the rugged French coastline and the approach into southern England.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🧂

Pedra de Lume Salt Crater

A unique view of the colorful salt evaporation ponds located inside an extinct volcanic crater on Sal island.

🏜️

The Sahara Meets the Sea

Incredible views of the Western Sahara and Moroccan coastline where massive desert dunes transition directly into the Atlantic surf.

🏔️

The Anti-Atlas Mountains

In the distance, the arid and jagged peaks of the Moroccan mountain ranges provide a dramatic backdrop to the coastal flight path.

🏰

The Normandy Coast

Clear views of the French 'Alabaster Coast' with its iconic white chalk cliffs and the historic beaches of northern France.

🚢

English Channel Shipping

Observation of one of the world's busiest shipping lanes, filled with ferries and container ships crossing between the UK and France.

🌳

South Downs National Park

A beautiful final view of the rolling green hills and chalk grasslands of southern England just before touchdown at LGW.

The right side is the 'coastline' side. For the best visibility of the Sahara and the French coast, fly during the morning to have the sun behind the plane. Keep an eye out for the distinctive white cliffs of the French coast as you cross from the Bay of Biscay toward the Channel.

Left Side Highlights
6.5
🏖️

Sal's Western Shores

Aerial views of the white sandy beaches of Santa Maria and the rugged volcanic coastline of western Sal island shortly after takeoff.

🌋

Canary Islands Peaks

Depending on the flight corridor, you may spot the towering peak of Mount Teide on Tenerife or the volcanic landscapes of La Palma to the east.

🚢

Bay of Biscay

A vast expanse of the deep blue Atlantic where you can often spot large cargo ships and tankers navigating toward northern Europe.

🏝️

Ouessant Island

The westernmost point of metropolitan France, marked by its famous lighthouses and jagged granite cliffs.

🏡

The Sussex Weald

As the plane descends into Gatwick, enjoy the patchwork quilt of English forests, fields, and traditional villages.

Choose the left side for northbound flights departing in the late afternoon to witness a stunning sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. This side is also preferable if you want to avoid the direct glare of the sun during morning departures from Cape Verde.

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Route Information

Distance: 4,325 km (2,687 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 5 min

Departure: SID (16.7414, -22.9494)

Arrival: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)

Route Type: International

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