While takeoff favors the left side with Dakar's coastal scenery, the landing sequence on the right side provides more substantial visual interest with the Thames estuary, London's urban geography, and suburban development during descent. The cruise phase over the Atlantic is equally uninteresting from both sides (open ocean), making the landing experience the decisive factor. Both sides score equally overall, but the right side's landing advantage gives it the edge for the complete flight experience.
Flown DKR to LHR? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Dakar to London is 2,707 miles (4,357 km), a flight of about 6 hours 15 minutes.
Bay of Biscay (open Atlantic, minimal visual interest), Cornish coastline and English Channel (visible during descent phase only), Irish Sea and Welsh coast (far to the north, not on direct routing)
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from DKR
LEFTLeft side (north/west) offers immediate coastal views of Dakar's peninsula and the Atlantic shoreline during initial climb, with the city's harbor and urban sprawl visible. Right side faces inland toward flat Sahel terrain with minimal visual interest during departure.
Landing at LHR
RIGHTRight side (south/east) during westerly operations approach to LHR provides extended views of the Thames estuary, London's urban sprawl, and suburban development as the aircraft descends on final approach heading west. Left side faces open countryside and the North Sea during descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Leopold Sedar Senghor International (DKR) to Heathrow (LHR)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Dakar to London. While takeoff favors the left side with Dakar's coastal scenery, the landing sequence on the right side provides more substantial visual interest with the Thames estuary, London's urban geography, and suburban development during descent. The cruise phase over the Atlantic is equally uninteresting from both sides (open ocean), making the landing experience the decisive factor. Both sides score equally overall, but the right side's landing advantage gives it the edge for the complete flight experience.
What can I see during takeoff from Leopold Sedar Senghor International in Dakar?
During takeoff from Leopold Sedar Senghor International (DKR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side (north/west) offers immediate coastal views of Dakar's peninsula and the Atlantic shoreline during initial climb, with the city's harbor and urban sprawl visible. Right side faces inland toward flat Sahel terrain with minimal visual interest during departure. Notable sights include: Dakar harbor and port facilities, Île de Gorée (small island visible offshore), Atlantic coastline, Almadies Peninsula.
What can I see when landing at Heathrow in London?
When landing at Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (south/east) during westerly operations approach to LHR provides extended views of the Thames estuary, London's urban sprawl, and suburban development as the aircraft descends on final approach heading west. Left side faces open countryside and the North Sea during descent. Notable sights include: Thames estuary and river bends, London's central urban area and skyline, suburban development of Greater London, Heathrow's runway complex and surrounding infrastructure.
How long is the flight from Dakar to London?
The flight from Leopold Sedar Senghor International (DKR) to Heathrow (LHR) takes about 6 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,707 miles (4,357 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Dakar to London flight path pass over?
Bay of Biscay (open Atlantic, minimal visual interest), Cornish coastline and English Channel (visible during descent phase only), Irish Sea and Welsh coast (far to the north, not on direct routing)