About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Gimpo (GMP) to Heathrow (LHR)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Seoul to London. The right side delivers the superior Seoul departure view with the Han River and Bukhansan, and while the left side wins at Heathrow, the right side also captures Siberian river systems and the Norwegian coast during the long overland cruise. For the full journey, right edges it out.
What can I see during takeoff from Gimpo in Seoul?
During takeoff from Gimpo (GMP), sit on the Right side for the best views. Gimpo typically departs on runway 32L/32R heading northwest, which puts the right side facing northeast toward Seoul city center and the Han River. You get a clear view of the Han River bridges, the dense urban grid of central Seoul, and Bukhansan's granite ridgeline to the north. Notable sights include: Han River and its bridges (Banghwa, Gayang), central Seoul urban grid, Bukhansan granite peaks to the northeast, Incheon coastal mudflats to the west visible briefly on left.
What can I see when landing at Heathrow in London?
When landing at Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Heathrow's most common landing configuration uses runways 27L/27R approaching from the east, meaning the aircraft tracks westbound over London. The left side faces south, giving a prolonged view of central London — the Thames, Tower Bridge, the City, and Canary Wharf — as you descend through 4,000-8,000 feet over the eastern suburbs. Notable sights include: River Thames and its bends through central London, Canary Wharf tower cluster, The City of London and Shard, Windsor Castle and Windsor Great Park on final approach.
How long is the flight from Seoul to London?
The flight from Gimpo (GMP) to Heathrow (LHR) takes Approximately 11 to 12 hours.
What does the Seoul to London flight path pass over?
The route tracks northwest from Seoul over the Yellow Sea, crosses northeastern China and Inner Mongolia, then traverses the vast Siberian taiga with the Ob and Yenisei river systems visible as enormous braided waterways cutting through flat boreal forest. Over western Siberia the route passes near the Ural Mountains — a low, ancient range visible as a subtle ridge. Crossing into Europe, the Baltic Sea and Scandinavian coastline appear, followed by the North Sea before descending into England.