While takeoff offers dramatic coastal scenery, the landing approach provides more sustained visual interest—the South Downs, Weald landscape, and approach to London are more visually distinctive than the departure over the Bay of Biscay. Right side captures the best of both segments.
Flown BIO to LGW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Bilbao to London is 557 miles (896 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
English Channel crossing (approximately 30 minutes into flight), with the Normandy coast visible to the south; the Isle of Wight and Solent visible as you approach the English coast; the New Forest and Hampshire heathlands visible inland from the Channel crossing point
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from BIO
LEFTLeft side captures the Basque coastline and the Bay of Biscay immediately after departure. You'll see the dramatic transition from Bilbao's urban sprawl to the Cantabrian Sea, with the Pyrenees visible inland to the southeast.
Landing at LGW
RIGHTRight side provides the best approach views into Gatwick. You'll see the South Downs, the Weald of Surrey, and the distinctive patchwork of English farmland and woodland. On clear days, the Thames Valley becomes visible as you descend toward the airport.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Bilbao (BIO) to Gatwick (LGW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Bilbao to London. While takeoff offers dramatic coastal scenery, the landing approach provides more sustained visual interest—the South Downs, Weald landscape, and approach to London are more visually distinctive than the departure over the Bay of Biscay. Right side captures the best of both segments.
What can I see during takeoff from Bilbao in Bilbao?
During takeoff from Bilbao (BIO), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures the Basque coastline and the Bay of Biscay immediately after departure. You'll see the dramatic transition from Bilbao's urban sprawl to the Cantabrian Sea, with the Pyrenees visible inland to the southeast. Notable sights include: Bay of Biscay (Cantabrian Sea), Bilbao city and Nervión River estuary, Pyrenees mountain range (distant southeast), Basque coastal cliffs and beaches.
What can I see when landing at Gatwick in London?
When landing at Gatwick (LGW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides the best approach views into Gatwick. You'll see the South Downs, the Weald of Surrey, and the distinctive patchwork of English farmland and woodland. On clear days, the Thames Valley becomes visible as you descend toward the airport. Notable sights include: South Downs (chalk hills), Weald of Surrey (forested rolling terrain), English Channel (distant southern horizon), Thames Valley and Greater London sprawl (north).
How long is the flight from Bilbao to London?
The flight from Bilbao (BIO) to Gatwick (LGW) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 557 miles (896 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Bilbao to London flight path pass over?
English Channel crossing (approximately 30 minutes into flight), with the Normandy coast visible to the south; the Isle of Wight and Solent visible as you approach the English coast; the New Forest and Hampshire heathlands visible inland from the Channel crossing point