While takeoff favors the right for Alpine views, the landing approach on the left side offers more sustained visual interest over the Thames, North Downs, and London's approach. The left side also captures more of the flight path's midpoint features over the English Channel and southern England.
Flown GVA to LGW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Geneva to London is 444 miles (715 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight crosses the Jura Mountains (visible as forested ridges), then the Doubs River valley. Over France, you'll see the Burgundy plateau and scattered lakes. The English Channel crossing offers views of the French coast near Dieppe, then the white cliffs of Dover and the Sussex coast. The North Downs form a distinctive ridge visible on approach to London.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from GVA
RIGHTGeneva typically departs eastbound (Runway 04 or 22 depending on wind), but when departing westbound toward London, right-side seats capture the initial climb over Lake Geneva and the Alps. The right side frames Mont Blanc and the Jura Mountains as you bank northwest.
Landing at LGW
LEFTGatwick's main runways (08L/08R and 26L/26R) mean eastbound arrivals use Runway 26. Left-side seats on approach capture the Thames, London's urban sprawl, and the North Downs. You'll see the river's distinctive meanders and Greater London's density before touchdown.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Geneva Cointrin (GVA) to Gatwick (LGW)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Geneva to London. While takeoff favors the right for Alpine views, the landing approach on the left side offers more sustained visual interest over the Thames, North Downs, and London's approach. The left side also captures more of the flight path's midpoint features over the English Channel and southern England.
What can I see during takeoff from Geneva Cointrin in Geneva?
During takeoff from Geneva Cointrin (GVA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Geneva typically departs eastbound (Runway 04 or 22 depending on wind), but when departing westbound toward London, right-side seats capture the initial climb over Lake Geneva and the Alps. The right side frames Mont Blanc and the Jura Mountains as you bank northwest. Notable sights include: Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) directly below during initial climb, Mont Blanc massif to the southeast, Jura Mountains to the north, Geneva city sprawl to the west.
What can I see when landing at Gatwick in London?
When landing at Gatwick (LGW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Gatwick's main runways (08L/08R and 26L/26R) mean eastbound arrivals use Runway 26. Left-side seats on approach capture the Thames, London's urban sprawl, and the North Downs. You'll see the river's distinctive meanders and Greater London's density before touchdown. Notable sights include: The River Thames with visible meanders, North Downs ridge to the south, London's urban expanse to the north, Gatwick's runway infrastructure and surrounding green belt.
How long is the flight from Geneva to London?
The flight from Geneva Cointrin (GVA) to Gatwick (LGW) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 444 miles (715 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Geneva to London flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Jura Mountains (visible as forested ridges), then the Doubs River valley. Over France, you'll see the Burgundy plateau and scattered lakes. The English Channel crossing offers views of the French coast near Dieppe, then the white cliffs of Dover and the Sussex coast. The North Downs form a distinctive ridge visible on approach to London.