The right side captures more of the departure scenery over the North Sea and Dutch coast, which is visually more distinctive than the approach. However, left seats offer compelling views during descent into Norwich's unique Broads landscape, making this a close call favoring right by a narrow margin.
Flown AMS to NWI? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Amsterdam to Norwich is 149 miles (239 km), a flight of about 55 minutes.
The flight path crosses the North Sea heading east-northeast. Midway, you'll be over open water with no major landmarks visible—this is the least scenic portion. The North Sea itself is visible from both sides during cruise, appearing as a featureless expanse. As the aircraft approaches the English coast near Great Yarmouth, the Norfolk coastline becomes visible, followed by the distinctive inland water systems of the Norfolk Broads before final descent into Norwich.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase

Takeoff from AMS
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the North Sea coast and the Dutch inland waterways as the aircraft climbs northeast toward Norwich. You'll see the polder landscape and water systems that define the Netherlands' geography during the initial climb.
Landing at NWI
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Norwich, showing the Norfolk Broads (a system of shallow lakes and waterways) and the transition from coastal wetlands to the city itself. This approach vector gives clear sightlines to the distinctive water landscape.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Schiphol (AMS) to Norwich (NWI)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Amsterdam to Norwich. The right side captures more of the departure scenery over the North Sea and Dutch coast, which is visually more distinctive than the approach. However, left seats offer compelling views during descent into Norwich's unique Broads landscape, making this a close call favoring right by a narrow margin.
What can I see during takeoff from Schiphol in Amsterdam?
During takeoff from Schiphol (AMS), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the North Sea coast and the Dutch inland waterways as the aircraft climbs northeast toward Norwich. You'll see the polder landscape and water systems that define the Netherlands' geography during the initial climb. Notable sights include: IJsselmeer (large inland lake), North Sea coastline, Dutch polder fields with canal networks, Afsluitdijk (the major dike connecting North Holland to Friesland).
What can I see when landing at Norwich in Norwich?
When landing at Norwich (NWI), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Norwich, showing the Norfolk Broads (a system of shallow lakes and waterways) and the transition from coastal wetlands to the city itself. This approach vector gives clear sightlines to the distinctive water landscape. Notable sights include: Norfolk Broads (interconnected lakes and waterways), River Yare, Norwich city center and its cathedral spire, North Sea coast to the northeast.
How long is the flight from Amsterdam to Norwich?
The flight from Schiphol (AMS) to Norwich (NWI) takes about 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 149 miles (239 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Amsterdam to Norwich flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Sea heading east-northeast. Midway, you'll be over open water with no major landmarks visible—this is the least scenic portion. The North Sea itself is visible from both sides during cruise, appearing as a featureless expanse. As the aircraft approaches the English coast near Great Yarmouth, the Norfolk coastline becomes visible, followed by the distinctive inland water systems of the Norfolk Broads before final descent into Norwich.