Right-side seats capture the superior scenery during the longer, more visually rewarding climb-out phase with Montserrat and the Catalan landscape. While left-side landing views are excellent, the takeoff advantage and the fact that most of the flight path crosses the Bay of Biscay and English Channel (featureless at altitude) makes right-side the better overall choice.
Flown BCN to LCY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Barcelona to London is 712 miles (1,146 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
Bay of Biscay (featureless open water), English Channel (narrow water crossing with occasional shipping visible), Normandy and Brittany coasts (briefly visible during Channel crossing), Isle of Wight and Dorset coastline (visible during approach to southern England)
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from BCN
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Montserrat massif and the Catalan coastal plain as the aircraft climbs northeastward from Barcelona-El Prat. The distinctive jagged peaks of Montserrat are clearly visible 30 miles northwest of the airport during the initial climb phase.
Landing at LCY
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the Thames estuary, London's urban sprawl, and the North Downs as the aircraft descends toward City Airport from the east. The river's distinctive meanders and the contrast between London's dense development and the green belt are particularly striking during final approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Barcelona (BCN) to City (LCY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Barcelona to London. Right-side seats capture the superior scenery during the longer, more visually rewarding climb-out phase with Montserrat and the Catalan landscape. While left-side landing views are excellent, the takeoff advantage and the fact that most of the flight path crosses the Bay of Biscay and English Channel (featureless at altitude) makes right-side the better overall choice.
What can I see during takeoff from Barcelona in Barcelona?
During takeoff from Barcelona (BCN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Montserrat massif and the Catalan coastal plain as the aircraft climbs northeastward from Barcelona-El Prat. The distinctive jagged peaks of Montserrat are clearly visible 30 miles northwest of the airport during the initial climb phase. Notable sights include: Montserrat mountain range, Mediterranean coastline south of Barcelona, Llobregat River delta, Catalan interior plains.
What can I see when landing at City in London?
When landing at City (LCY), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Thames estuary, London's urban sprawl, and the North Downs as the aircraft descends toward City Airport from the east. The river's distinctive meanders and the contrast between London's dense development and the green belt are particularly striking during final approach. Notable sights include: River Thames and its estuary, London's central districts and urban perimeter, North Downs ridge, Greenwich Peninsula.
How long is the flight from Barcelona to London?
The flight from Barcelona (BCN) to City (LCY) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 712 miles (1,146 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Barcelona to London flight path pass over?
Bay of Biscay (featureless open water), English Channel (narrow water crossing with occasional shipping visible), Normandy and Brittany coasts (briefly visible during Channel crossing), Isle of Wight and Dorset coastline (visible during approach to southern England)