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STN destination photo
ACE destination photo

STNACE

Which side of the plane to sit from London Stansted Airport (London) to Lanzarote Airport (Arrecife)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a more diverse viewing experience, including the varied landscapes of Western France and Northern Spain, followed by the dramatic volcanic craters of Lanzarote during the descent.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

London & Essex

Views of the Thames Estuary and the sprawling suburbs of Southeast England shortly after takeoff from Stansted.

🌊

French Atlantic Coast

Aerial perspective of the rugged coastline of Brittany and the sweeping beaches bordering the Bay of Biscay.

🏔️

Picos de Europa

The jagged, often snow-capped limestone peaks of Northern Spain are usually visible as the flight enters Spanish airspace.

🍷

Aquitaine Basin

Overlooking the famous vineyards of Bordeaux and the vast pine forests of the Landes region in Southwest France.

🌋

Timanfaya National Park

Incredible views of the 'Fire Mountains' and the unique lunar-like volcanic terrain of Lanzarote during the final approach.

On morning flights, the sun is positioned on the left side initially but moves behind the aircraft, making for excellent photography conditions without glare. As you cross Northern Spain, look down for the high mountain peaks. During the final 15 minutes of the flight, the left side typically offers the most iconic views of Lanzarote's red and black volcanic interior.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🚢

Bay of Biscay

Expansive views of the deep blue Atlantic Ocean, often dotted with cargo ships and tankers on international routes.

🌅

Atlantic Horizon

Uninterrupted views of the Western horizon, perfect for watching the sun set on late afternoon or evening departures.

🏝️

La Graciosa

The small, roadless island north of Lanzarote is clearly visible as the plane begins its descent over the Chinijo Archipelago.

🏖️

Famara Cliffs

Dramatic, towering cliffs and the long sandy beach of Famara, a major landmark on the northwest coast of the island.

For late afternoon flights, the right side is ideal for witnessing a sunset over the Atlantic. During the approach into Arrecife Airport (ACE), keep your eyes peeled for the smaller islands north of Lanzarote, which appear on this side first. If the plane approaches from the south, this side also offers a great view of the coastal resorts like Puerto del Carmen.

Top Activities in Arrecife
Route Information

Distance: 2,796 km (1,737 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 44 min

Departure: STN (51.8849983215, 0.234999999404)

Arrival: ACE (28.945499, -13.6052)

Route Type: International

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