Loading map...

SOF destination photo
LTN destination photo

SOFLTN

Which side of the plane to sit from Sofia Airport (Sofia) to London Luton Airport (London)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the Danube River, a spectacular aerial perspective of Budapest, and a clearer view of the North Sea coastline during the crossing into the UK.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏞️

Balkan Mountains

Rugged ridges of the Stara Planina range visible immediately north of Sofia during climb out.

💧

Danube River

The flight path frequently parallels the winding blue ribbon of the Danube through several borders.

🇭🇺

Budapest

An exceptional view of the Hungarian Parliament and the bridges spanning the Danube as you fly over.

🏰

Rhine Valley

Views of the industrial and historic heart of Germany, including major river bends and castles.

🌊

English Channel

Aerial view of the shipping lanes and the transition from the North Sea into the UK mainland.

🌳

Essex & Hertfordshire

Quintessential English countryside views and patchwork fields during the descent into Luton.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be on the opposite side of the aircraft. Keep your camera ready about 50-60 minutes into the flight for the best views of Budapest. If the flight approaches Luton from the east, you will have an excellent view of the rolling Chiltern Hills just before landing.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
⛰️

Rila and Pirin Mountains

Stunning views of Bulgaria's highest peaks to the south shortly after takeoff from Sofia.

🏙️

Vienna Skyline

The Austrian capital often appears on the southern horizon as the flight crosses Central Europe.

🏔️

Distant Alps

On clear days, the northern fringes of the Alps are visible as a jagged white line on the horizon.

🇧🇪

Brussels and Low Countries

Dense urban networks and canal systems of Belgium are visible during the cruise phase.

🎡

Central London

Depending on the LTN approach pattern, the Shard and London Eye may be visible in the distance to the south.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. Watch the southern horizon about midway through the flight for the best chance to see the snow-capped Alps. During winter months, the low sun angle provides dramatic shadows over the Bulgarian mountain ranges during departure.

Top Activities in London
Route Information

Distance: 2,050 km (1,274 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 44 min

Departure: SOF (42.69669342041016, 23.411436080932617)

Arrival: LTN (51.87469863891602, -0.36833301186561584)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.