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SNN → BHX
Which side of the plane to sit from Shannon Airport (Shannon) to Birmingham International Airport (Birmingham)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior vantage point for the Irish Lakelands, the dramatic peaks of Snowdonia in North Wales, and the best views of the Birmingham city skyline during the typical approach into BHX.
Lough Derg
The largest lake on the River Shannon, visible shortly after departure as you head east across the Irish midlands.
Wicklow Mountains
Distant but clear views of Ireland's largest continuous upland area and its granite peaks to the north-east.
Snowdonia / Eryri
As you cross the Irish Sea, look north to see the rugged, high-altitude terrain of the Welsh mountains.
Ironbridge Gorge
The UNESCO-listed valley in Shropshire, known as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, visible near Telford.
Birmingham City Center
During the final descent, the left side frequently provides a panoramic view of the city's modern skyscrapers and the BT Tower.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is also strategic for spotting the Birmingham skyline if the plane lands on Runway 33 (the most common configuration). Keep an eye out for the distinctive shape of the Bullring building as you descend.
Shannon Estuary
Excellent views of the wide river mouth and the intricate coastline around Limerick city immediately after takeoff.
Galty Mountains
Ireland's highest inland mountain range, appearing as a sharp, impressive ridge to the south of the flight path.
Pembrokeshire Coast
Visible as you cross the St George's Channel, showing the jagged cliffs and blue waters of the Welsh coastline.
Malvern Hills
A very distinctive narrow ridge of ancient volcanic rock rising steeply from the surrounding English plains.
The Golden Vale
Look down over South-Central Ireland to see some of the most fertile and lush green pastoral land in Europe.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to catch the sunset over the Atlantic as you depart Ireland. It also provides a better view of the rural English Midlands and the rolling hills of the Cotswolds in the distance as you enter UK airspace.
Distance: 486 km (302 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 49 min
Departure: SNN (52.702, -8.92482)
Arrival: BHX (52.4538993835, -1.7480299472799998)
Route Type: International
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