While the takeoff offers Andean scenery, the landing approach over the Firth of Forth and Edinburgh's iconic bridges and castle ridge is more visually distinctive and memorable. Right seats capture both the water and urban landmarks during descent.
Flown BBA to EDI? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Balmaceda to Edinburgh is 8,072 miles (12,990 km), a flight of about 18 hours.
This route crosses the South Atlantic, so midpoint views depend on routing and stops. Typical paths via Buenos Aires or São Paulo would show the Pampas, Atlantic coastline, and Brazilian highlands. If routed via Dakar or Lisbon, the Sahara, Atlas Mountains, and Iberian Peninsula become relevant. The transatlantic leg itself offers open ocean with occasional cloud formations and, near the UK, the Celtic Sea and Irish coastline.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from BBA
LEFTLeft side offers views of the Andes foothills and the Carretera Austral valley system as the aircraft climbs southeastward from Balmaceda. The terrain immediately surrounding the airport is relatively flat steppe, but the western escarpment of the Andes becomes visible within minutes of departure.
Landing at EDI
RIGHTThe approach to Edinburgh from the south brings the aircraft over the Pentland Hills and the Firth of Forth. Right-side seats capture the estuary, the Forth bridges, and the city skyline as the aircraft descends toward Runway 06 or 24. The Pentland Hills form a dramatic backdrop to the west.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Balmaceda (BBA) to Edinburgh (EDI)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Balmaceda to Edinburgh. While the takeoff offers Andean scenery, the landing approach over the Firth of Forth and Edinburgh's iconic bridges and castle ridge is more visually distinctive and memorable. Right seats capture both the water and urban landmarks during descent.
What can I see during takeoff from Balmaceda in Balmaceda?
During takeoff from Balmaceda (BBA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the Andes foothills and the Carretera Austral valley system as the aircraft climbs southeastward from Balmaceda. The terrain immediately surrounding the airport is relatively flat steppe, but the western escarpment of the Andes becomes visible within minutes of departure. Notable sights include: Andes eastern foothills, Carretera Austral (Route 7) corridor, Puyehue volcanic plateau to the south, General Carrera Lake (Lago General Carrera) visible at distance.
What can I see when landing at Edinburgh in Edinburgh?
When landing at Edinburgh (EDI), sit on the Right side for the best views. The approach to Edinburgh from the south brings the aircraft over the Pentland Hills and the Firth of Forth. Right-side seats capture the estuary, the Forth bridges, and the city skyline as the aircraft descends toward Runway 06 or 24. The Pentland Hills form a dramatic backdrop to the west. Notable sights include: Firth of Forth (body of water), Forth Road Bridge and Forth Rail Bridge, Pentland Hills, Edinburgh city center and castle ridge.
How long is the flight from Balmaceda to Edinburgh?
The flight from Balmaceda (BBA) to Edinburgh (EDI) takes about 18 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 8,072 miles (12,990 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Balmaceda to Edinburgh flight path pass over?
This route crosses the South Atlantic, so midpoint views depend on routing and stops. Typical paths via Buenos Aires or São Paulo would show the Pampas, Atlantic coastline, and Brazilian highlands. If routed via Dakar or Lisbon, the Sahara, Atlas Mountains, and Iberian Peninsula become relevant. The transatlantic leg itself offers open ocean with occasional cloud formations and, near the UK, the Celtic Sea and Irish coastline.