While takeoff offers good geological interest (Firth of Forth, Pentland Hills), the landing approach into London provides more dramatic urban landmarks and the Thames, which is visually distinctive throughout descent. Left-side seats capture both the river and major London sights.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the North Sea coast near Newcastle/Northumberland, then proceeds south over the Midlands. Notable midpoint features include the Cheviot Hills (visible to the left/west during the northern leg), the industrial conurbations of the Midlands (Nottingham, Leicester area), and the gradual transition from moorland to lowland agricultural landscape as the aircraft descends toward London. The Pennines remain visible to the west throughout much of the flight but are distant features on the horizon.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Edinburgh (EDI) to City (LCY)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Edinburgh to London. While takeoff offers good geological interest (Firth of Forth, Pentland Hills), the landing approach into London provides more dramatic urban landmarks and the Thames, which is visually distinctive throughout descent. Left-side seats capture both the river and major London sights.
What can I see during takeoff from Edinburgh in Edinburgh?
During takeoff from Edinburgh (EDI), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Firth of Forth estuary and the Pentland Hills immediately after departure. Edinburgh typically departs runway 06 or 24; from either heading, the right wing shows the water body and surrounding terrain that defines the airport's geography. Notable sights include: Firth of Forth (wide estuary directly below), Pentland Hills (rolling moorland to the south), Forth Road Bridge and rail bridge (visible as thin lines crossing the firth), Edinburgh city sprawl (urban grid to the north).
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 offer views of the Thames, central London landmarks, and the approach path over the city. City Airport (LCY) uses runways aligned roughly 09/27; descent from the west provides excellent left-side views of the river and urban landscape before touchdown. Notable sights include: River Thames (winding through central London), Tower Bridge and Tower of London (distinctive structures in the City), Canary Wharf (tall cluster visible from distance), Isle of Dogs (peninsula formed by Thames meander).
How long is the flight from Edinburgh to London?
The flight from Edinburgh (EDI) to City (LCY) takes Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.
What does the Edinburgh to London flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Sea coast near Newcastle/Northumberland, then proceeds south over the Midlands. Notable midpoint features include the Cheviot Hills (visible to the left/west during the northern leg), the industrial conurbations of the Midlands (Nottingham, Leicester area), and the gradual transition from moorland to lowland agricultural landscape as the aircraft descends toward London. The Pennines remain visible to the west throughout much of the flight but are distant features on the horizon.