Right side scores higher due to superior landing scenery—the Thames estuary, London's urban sprawl, and Heathrow's distinctive infrastructure provide more visual interest and recognizable landmarks than the left side's North Sea and flat Essex. While takeoff is comparable on both sides, the landing experience on the right significantly outweighs the left's modest advantages during departure.
Flown HLA to LHR? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Johannesburg to London is 5,620 miles (9,044 km), a flight of about 11 hours 15 minutes.
North African Sahara (Algeria and Mali), Atlas Mountains (Morocco/Algeria border), Mediterranean coast (Spain/North Africa), Bay of Biscay, English Channel, and the transition from African savanna through Mediterranean climates to temperate European landscapes. The flight crosses the Equator's thermal belt, the Sahara's vast sand seas and rocky plateaus, and the Alpine-influenced weather systems of southern Europe.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from HLA
RIGHTRight side captures the Johannesburg urban sprawl and the transition to the Highveld plateau during climb-out. Left side faces open grassland with minimal landmarks during initial departure.
Landing at LHR
RIGHTRight side offers the Thames estuary, London's urban sprawl, and the approach into Heathrow with views of the city's western suburbs and the river's distinctive meanders. Left side faces the North Sea and flat Essex countryside with fewer dramatic features.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Lanseria (HLA) to Heathrow (LHR)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Johannesburg to London. Right side scores higher due to superior landing scenery—the Thames estuary, London's urban sprawl, and Heathrow's distinctive infrastructure provide more visual interest and recognizable landmarks than the left side's North Sea and flat Essex. While takeoff is comparable on both sides, the landing experience on the right significantly outweighs the left's modest advantages during departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Lanseria in Johannesburg?
During takeoff from Lanseria (HLA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures the Johannesburg urban sprawl and the transition to the Highveld plateau during climb-out. Left side faces open grassland with minimal landmarks during initial departure. Notable sights include: Johannesburg skyline (Sandton towers visible), Witwatersrand ridge escarpment, Highveld grassland plateau.
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 offers the Thames estuary, London's urban sprawl, and the approach into Heathrow with views of the city's western suburbs and the river's distinctive meanders. Left side faces the North Sea and flat Essex countryside with fewer dramatic features. Notable sights include: Thames estuary and meanders, London's western suburbs and urban grid, Heathrow Airport and surrounding motorway network, Windsor and the Home Counties green belt.
How long is the flight from Johannesburg to London?
The flight from Lanseria (HLA) to Heathrow (LHR) takes about 11 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,620 miles (9,044 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Johannesburg to London flight path pass over?
North African Sahara (Algeria and Mali), Atlas Mountains (Morocco/Algeria border), Mediterranean coast (Spain/North Africa), Bay of Biscay, English Channel, and the transition from African savanna through Mediterranean climates to temperate European landscapes. The flight crosses the Equator's thermal belt, the Sahara's vast sand seas and rocky plateaus, and the Alpine-influenced weather systems of southern Europe.