The right side captures the most dramatic scenery: Hong Kong's harbour and urban landscape at takeoff, and the Thames estuary approach into London. The left side offers less distinctive views during the long cruise over Central Asia and Europe.
Flown HKG to LCY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Hong Kong to London is 5,964 miles (9,598 km), a flight of about 11 hours 45 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Himalayas (Hindu Kush and Karakoram ranges visible as snow-capped peaks), the Caspian Sea, the Black Sea, and the Alps before descending into the Thames estuary. The Himalayas provide the most visually striking midpoint feature, typically visible around 6-7 hours into the flight depending on routing.
Great circle distance and headings ›
.jpeg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from HKG
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Victoria Harbour, Kowloon Peninsula, and the New Territories as the aircraft climbs northwest from Hong Kong International. The harbour's distinctive shape and the urban sprawl of Hong Kong Island provide excellent early-flight scenery.
Landing at LCY
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the Thames estuary, the North Sea coast, and the approach into London City Airport. As the aircraft descends eastbound along the Thames, passengers see the river's meanders, the Isle of Dogs, and central London's landmarks before final approach.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Hong Kong International (HKG) to City (LCY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Hong Kong to London. The right side captures the most dramatic scenery: Hong Kong's harbour and urban landscape at takeoff, and the Thames estuary approach into London. The left side offers less distinctive views during the long cruise over Central Asia and Europe.
What can I see during takeoff from Hong Kong International in Hong Kong?
During takeoff from Hong Kong International (HKG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Victoria Harbour, Kowloon Peninsula, and the New Territories as the aircraft climbs northwest from Hong Kong International. The harbour's distinctive shape and the urban sprawl of Hong Kong Island provide excellent early-flight scenery. Notable sights include: Victoria Harbour, Kowloon Peninsula, Hong Kong Island skyline, New Territories.
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 provide views of the Thames estuary, the North Sea coast, and the approach into London City Airport. As the aircraft descends eastbound along the Thames, passengers see the river's meanders, the Isle of Dogs, and central London's landmarks before final approach. Notable sights include: River Thames, Isle of Dogs, Canary Wharf, North Sea coast.
How long is the flight from Hong Kong to London?
The flight from Hong Kong International (HKG) to City (LCY) takes about 11 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,964 miles (9,598 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Hong Kong to London flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Himalayas (Hindu Kush and Karakoram ranges visible as snow-capped peaks), the Caspian Sea, the Black Sea, and the Alps before descending into the Thames estuary. The Himalayas provide the most visually striking midpoint feature, typically visible around 6-7 hours into the flight depending on routing.