About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from King Abdulaziz International (JED) to Heathrow (LHR)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Jeddah to London. Left side wins at both ends of the flight. The Red Sea departure and the central London approach are both on the left. Over the Mediterranean and Alps the views are more symmetrical, but the bookend highlights favor left throughout.
What can I see during takeoff from King Abdulaziz International in Jeddah?
During takeoff from King Abdulaziz International (JED), sit on the Left side for the best views. King Abdulaziz International typically departs northward on runway 16L/34R or 18L/36R. A northbound departure puts the Red Sea immediately to the left (west). You get a clear view of the coastal lagoons, the historic Jeddah corniche, and the open Red Sea stretching toward the horizon. Notable sights include: Red Sea coastline and lagoons west of Jeddah, Jeddah corniche waterfront, King Fahd Fountain (world's tallest, visible from low altitude), coastal reef patterns in shallow turquoise water.
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 dominant runway orientation is 09L/27R and 09R/27L, running east-west. Flights from the southeast typically land heading west on 27L or 27R. On left-side seats approaching from the east, you track over central London — the Thames, Tower Bridge, the City, and the West End are all visible on the left before turning onto final approach. Notable sights include: River Thames snaking through central London, Tower Bridge and Tower of London, The Shard and City of London skyline, Windsor Castle and Windsor Great Park on final approach.
How long is the flight from Jeddah to London?
The flight from King Abdulaziz International (JED) to Heathrow (LHR) takes Approximately 6 hours 45 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Jeddah to London flight path pass over?
After departing Jeddah the route tracks northwest over the northern Red Sea and the Sinai Peninsula, then across the eastern Mediterranean. The flight crosses Greece and the Aegean Sea, then the Alps — the Swiss and French Alps are visible with snow-covered peaks including Mont Blanc area. Over France the route passes above the Paris basin before crossing the English Channel into southern England.