The right side edges ahead thanks to the London skyline view during the Gatwick approach, which adds a strong urban landmark moment that the takeoff side, dominated by generic city sprawl, doesn't quite match.
Flown CAN to LGW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Guangzhou to London is 5,902 miles (9,499 km), a flight of about 12 hours 35 minutes.
Gobi Desert margins, Mongolian steppe, Ural Mountains, Volga River basin, Western Siberian Plain
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from CAN
LEFTDeparting CAN northbound before turning northwest toward Europe, the left side gives a good look back at Guangzhou's dense urban core and the Pearl River as it winds south toward the delta. The right side mostly shows the wooded slopes of Baiyun Mountain and suburban sprawl, less distinct from altitude.
Landing at LGW
RIGHTWith Gatwick typically landing to the west on runway 26, the approach comes in from the east over Kent and Surrey, and the turn onto final often affords a right-side view north toward the London skyline and the Thames basin before the plane lines up south of the city. The left side during this leg mostly shows the flatter Sussex Weald countryside with fewer landmarks.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) to Gatwick (LGW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Guangzhou to London. The right side edges ahead thanks to the London skyline view during the Gatwick approach, which adds a strong urban landmark moment that the takeoff side, dominated by generic city sprawl, doesn't quite match.
What can I see during takeoff from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in Guangzhou?
During takeoff from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing CAN northbound before turning northwest toward Europe, the left side gives a good look back at Guangzhou's dense urban core and the Pearl River as it winds south toward the delta. The right side mostly shows the wooded slopes of Baiyun Mountain and suburban sprawl, less distinct from altitude. Notable sights include: Pearl River, Guangzhou city skyline, Baiyun Mountain foothills, Pearl River Delta waterways.
What can I see when landing at Gatwick in London?
When landing at Gatwick (LGW), sit on the Right side for the best views. With Gatwick typically landing to the west on runway 26, the approach comes in from the east over Kent and Surrey, and the turn onto final often affords a right-side view north toward the London skyline and the Thames basin before the plane lines up south of the city. The left side during this leg mostly shows the flatter Sussex Weald countryside with fewer landmarks. Notable sights include: London skyline (Shard, City towers), River Thames bends, North Downs ridgeline, Surrey/Kent farmland patchwork.
How long is the flight from Guangzhou to London?
The flight from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) to Gatwick (LGW) takes about 12 hours 35 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,902 miles (9,499 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Guangzhou to London flight path pass over?
Gobi Desert margins, Mongolian steppe, Ural Mountains, Volga River basin, Western Siberian Plain