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SOF → LHR
Which side of the plane to sit from Sofia Airport (Sofia) to London Heathrow Airport (London)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer scenic views of the European continent, the right side is superior for its iconic bird's-eye view of London's skyline, including the Shard and Tower Bridge, during the standard approach into Heathrow.
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The Danube River
Follow the blue ribbon of the Danube as it snakes through Hungary and Austria, often visible shortly after reaching cruise altitude.
European Cityscapes
Excellent views of major hubs like Frankfurt and Brussels depending on the specific airway used.
London Landmarks
On the standard 'STAR' arrival into LHR, you will fly directly past the Shard, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye.
Westminster
Unbeatable views of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben just moments before the wheels touch down.
Royal Parks
A green sequence of Hyde Park, St. James's Park, and Kensington Gardens is visible during the descent.
The right side is essential for first-time visitors to London. Choose a seat ahead of the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the city center. Note that the 'London Tour' view occurs when the wind is blowing from the west (the most common scenario), requiring a landing on Runway 27R or 27L. On evening flights, the illuminated London skyline is spectacular from this side.
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Vitosha Mountain
Immediately after takeoff from Sofia, the left side offers a direct view of the massive Vitosha dome looming over the city.
Austrian Alps
As the flight crosses Central Europe, look south for a panoramic view of the snow-capped peaks of the High Tauern range.
Rhine Valley
Bird's-eye view of the winding Rhine River and the intensive vineyard-covered hills of Western Germany.
English Channel
Clear views of the busy shipping lanes and the white-capped waves as you transition from Continental Europe to the UK.
Windsor Castle
On final approach to Heathrow's 27 runways, the left side often gets a perfect view of the historic royal residence.
Sit on the left if you prefer nature and mountain landscapes. This side is particularly beautiful during morning flights when the sun illuminates the Alps from the south. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff for the best shots of Sofia's surrounding mountains. If landing towards the east (Runway 09), the left side provides views of the leafy Berkshire countryside.
Get eSIMs for Bulgaria
Get eSIMs for United KingdomDistance: 2,041 km (1,268 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 43 min
Departure: SOF (42.69669342041016, 23.411436080932617)
Arrival: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)
Route Type: International
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