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SOU destination photo
GCI destination photo

SOUGCI

Which side of the plane to sit from Southampton Airport (Southampton) to Guernsey Airport (Guernsey)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers the most iconic sights including the Needles lighthouse and the famous chalk stacks of the Isle of Wight, plus better views of the New Forest and St Peter Port on descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌲

New Forest National Park

Lush green canopies and ancient woodlands stretching inland from the Solent.

🏰

Hurst Castle

A historic coastal fortress situated at the tip of a dramatic shingle spit.

📍

The Needles

The most famous landmark of the route, featuring three iconic white chalk stacks and a lighthouse.

🗼

Alderney

Clear views of the northernmost Channel Island and its rugged coastline during the descent.

🏰

St Peter Port

Guernsey's picturesque capital with its marina and Castle Cornet visible on the final approach.

The right side is superior for photography, specifically for capturing The Needles shortly after takeoff. For the best experience, book an afternoon flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the white cliffs. On approach to Guernsey Runway 26, the right side often gets a spectacular view of the town of St Peter Port.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🚢

Southampton Docks

A birds-eye view of the major cruise terminals and the bustling container port operations.

🏝️

Eastern Isle of Wight

Views of the rolling hills of the island and the coastal towns of Ryde and Sandown.

🌊

English Channel

Observe the heavy maritime traffic in one of the world's busiest shipping lanes.

🇫🇷

Cotentin Peninsula

On clear days, the distant coastline of Normandy, France, is visible to the southeast.

🐚

Herm and Sark

Stunning views of the smaller, car-free Channel Islands during the final approach phase.

Choose a seat behind the wing to ensure your view of the smaller Channel Islands like Sark isn't blocked. Morning flights provide excellent lighting for the French coastline to the east. Keep an eye out for the distinct turquoise waters around Herm's Shell Beach as you descend.

Top Activities in Guernsey
Route Information

Distance: 190 km (118 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 19 min

Departure: SOU (50.95029830932617, -1.3567999601364136)

Arrival: GCI (49.43500137329102, -2.601969957351685)

Route Type: International

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