While takeoff favors the left side with Lake Michigan and the Fox River valley, the landing experience on the right side—descending over the Thames estuary and Greater London's distinctive urban and industrial landscape—provides more dramatic and recognizable scenery. The Thames meanders, Canary Wharf, and Docklands create a visually compelling finale that outweighs the modest takeoff advantage. Both sides score equally due to the ocean-dominated cruise phase (5+ hours over the Atlantic), but the landing quality tips the balance to the right.
Flight Path
Atlantic Ocean dominates the cruise phase (5+ hours of open water with minimal visual interest). Departure crosses the Great Lakes region and Appalachian foothills. Arrival phase includes the Irish coast (if visible on southern routing), the Celtic Sea, the English Channel, and the Thames estuary. No significant mountain ranges, volcanic features, or dramatic terrain visible during cruise—primarily open ocean with occasional cloud formations.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Appleton International Airport (ATW) to City (LCY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Appleton to London. While takeoff favors the left side with Lake Michigan and the Fox River valley, the landing experience on the right side—descending over the Thames estuary and Greater London's distinctive urban and industrial landscape—provides more dramatic and recognizable scenery. The Thames meanders, Canary Wharf, and Docklands create a visually compelling finale that outweighs the modest takeoff advantage. Both sides score equally due to the ocean-dominated cruise phase (5+ hours over the Atlantic), but the landing quality tips the balance to the right.
What can I see during takeoff from Appleton International Airport in Appleton?
During takeoff from Appleton International Airport (ATW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures the Fox River valley and Lake Michigan shoreline during climb-out from Appleton, offering immediate water and urban features. Right side faces inland toward flat Wisconsin farmland with minimal visual interest during departure. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan (eastern horizon), Fox River valley, Appleton urban area, Green Bay (visible to north on left side).
What can I see when landing at City in London?
When landing at City (LCY), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides the superior London approach, with views of the Thames estuary, Greater London's sprawl, and the distinctive urban landscape during descent into City Airport. Left side faces the North Sea and offers only open water and distant coastline. Notable sights include: Thames estuary and river bends, Greater London urban grid, Canary Wharf and East London skyline, City Airport runway and Docklands.
How long is the flight from Appleton to London?
The flight from Appleton International Airport (ATW) to City (LCY) takes 7h 15m.
What does the Appleton to London flight path pass over?
Atlantic Ocean dominates the cruise phase (5+ hours of open water with minimal visual interest). Departure crosses the Great Lakes region and Appalachian foothills. Arrival phase includes the Irish coast (if visible on southern routing), the Celtic Sea, the English Channel, and the Thames estuary. No significant mountain ranges, volcanic features, or dramatic terrain visible during cruise—primarily open ocean with occasional cloud formations.