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SZG destination photo
LGW destination photo

SZGLGW

Which side of the plane to sit from Salzburg Airport (Salzburg) to London Gatwick Airport (London)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a more dramatic perspective of the Alpine peaks during departure, followed by excellent views of the French coast and the iconic white cliffs of the English south coast during the descent into Gatwick.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Northern Limestone Alps

Breathtaking views of the Untersberg and Berchtesgaden Alps immediately after takeoff from Salzburg.

🌊

Chiemsee

Look down at Bavaria's largest lake, known as the 'Bavarian Sea,' with its famous Herreninsel island.

🌲

The Ardennes

Vast stretches of dense forest and rolling hills across Luxembourg and southern Belgium.

⚓

Port of Calais

Clear views of the major French ferry terminal and the narrowest point of the English Channel.

⚪

White Cliffs of Sussex

On the descent, the chalk cliffs of Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters are often visible to the south.

🏰

Helever Castle area

The lush greenery of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty as you approach Gatwick.

Sit on the left for the best morning light on the Alps without direct sun glare. During the descent, keep your camera ready as the plane crosses the English Channel; the contrast between the blue water and the white chalk cliffs is stunning. Seasonal tip: in winter, the snow-capped Alpine peaks to the south are far more prominent on this side.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏰

Salzburg Old Town

A perfect aerial view of the Hohensalzburg Fortress and the Getreidegasse if taking off towards the west.

🏙️

Munich Skyline

On clear days, the Allianz Arena and the distinctive towers of the Frauenkirche are visible to the north.

🌉

Rhine River

Cross the mighty Rhine near the border of Germany and the Benelux region.

🇧🇪

Brussels Cityscape

The urban sprawl of the Belgian capital, including the Atomium if the flight path is northerly.

🚢

Zeebrugge & North Sea

Views of the Belgian coastline and the heavy maritime traffic entering the English Channel.

🎡

London Skyline

If the plane enters a holding pattern or approaches from the east, the Shard and London Eye appear in the distance.

The right side is ideal for city spotters. You will have a better chance of seeing the London skyline during the final turns for the Gatwick approach. This side also avoids the harsh southern sun for most of the westbound journey, making it easier to take photos without cabin reflections. Watch for the intricate patterns of the Belgian polder lands near the coast.

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Route Information

Distance: 1,022 km (635 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min

Departure: SZG (47.7933006287, 13.0043001175)

Arrival: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)

Route Type: International

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