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STN → PDV
Which side of the plane to sit from London Stansted Airport (London) to Plovdiv International Airport (Plovdiv)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the majestic Alps and the rugged Rila and Rhodope mountain ranges upon entering Bulgaria.
White Cliffs of Dover
Classic views of the English coastline and the busy shipping lanes of the English Channel.
The Central Alps
Spectacular, close-up views of the snow-capped Swiss or Austrian Alps, including glaciers and jagged peaks.
Adriatic Glimpses
On clear days and southerly routes, the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea near the Dalmatian coast are visible.
Rila & Rhodope Mountains
Stunning views of Bulgaria's highest peaks, including Musala, just before starting the descent into Plovdiv.
Ancient Plovdiv
As the plane banks for landing, you may see the historic 'Seven Hills' and the Roman Amphitheater.
The right side is the definitive choice for mountain lovers. For the best experience, book a morning flight to have the sun behind you when crossing the Alps. Watch for the dramatic transition from the Balkan plains to the massive Rila range in the final 20 minutes of the flight. Seasonal snow cover on the Alps (October to May) makes the right side particularly breathtaking.
Greater London & Essex
Excellent views of the Thames Estuary and the sprawling outskirts of East London shortly after departure from Stansted.
North Sea Coastline
Views of the Belgian and Dutch coastlines, including major ports like Zeebrugge, depending on the specific air corridor.
German Rhineland
Sightings of the winding Rhine River and the densely populated urban centers of Western Germany.
Northern Alpine Fringe
Distant views of the northern slopes of the Alps and the Bavarian Plateau.
Balkan Mountains
The Stara Planina range comes into view as the flight enters Bulgarian airspace from the northwest.
Choose the left side for better views of the North Sea coastline and the sprawling plains of the Balkans. This side typically experiences less direct sun glare during the midday flight south-east, making photography easier. Look out for the Danube River marking the border between Romania and Bulgaria.
Distance: 2,148 km (1,335 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 52 min
Departure: STN (51.8849983215, 0.234999999404)
Arrival: PDV (42.067799, 24.8508)
Route Type: International
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