Right-side seats win overall due to the superior scenic value during takeoff from Jersey—the dramatic coastal cliffs and Channel Islands views are more visually distinctive than the landing approach. The takeoff scenery is more memorable than the suburban approach to Gatwick.
Flown JER to LGW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Jersey to London is 161 miles (259 km), a flight of about 30 minutes.
During the short flight, the aircraft crosses the English Channel at roughly 15,000-20,000 feet. The midpoint offers views of open water with the Hampshire/Sussex coastline (Selsey Bill area) becoming visible ahead. The Isle of Wight may be visible to the left (west) depending on exact flight path. The descent begins over the South Downs and Weald of Surrey.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from JER
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Jersey's dramatic coastline and the Channel Islands archipelago during climb-out. The aircraft will turn northeast toward the UK mainland, giving right-seat passengers the best angle on the rocky northern cliffs and surrounding waters before heading inland.
Landing at LGW
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the descent and approach to Gatwick. The aircraft descends from the south over Surrey's rolling countryside, and left-seat passengers will see the Weald landscape, suburban sprawl approaching London, and the final approach path over the distinctive patchwork of fields and towns south of the airport.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Jersey (JER) to Gatwick (LGW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Jersey to London. Right-side seats win overall due to the superior scenic value during takeoff from Jersey—the dramatic coastal cliffs and Channel Islands views are more visually distinctive than the landing approach. The takeoff scenery is more memorable than the suburban approach to Gatwick.
What can I see during takeoff from Jersey in Jersey?
During takeoff from Jersey (JER), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Jersey's dramatic coastline and the Channel Islands archipelago during climb-out. The aircraft will turn northeast toward the UK mainland, giving right-seat passengers the best angle on the rocky northern cliffs and surrounding waters before heading inland. Notable sights include: Jersey's northern coastline (Plemont Bay area), the English Channel, Guernsey visible to the northwest across the water, and the granite headlands of Jersey's east coast.
What can I see when landing at Gatwick in London?
When landing at Gatwick (LGW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the descent and approach to Gatwick. The aircraft descends from the south over Surrey's rolling countryside, and left-seat passengers will see the Weald landscape, suburban sprawl approaching London, and the final approach path over the distinctive patchwork of fields and towns south of the airport. Notable sights include: The North Downs ridge (visible as elevated terrain), Surrey's agricultural Weald with its patchwork fields, the suburban expansion of Greater London's southern edge, and the River Mole valley.
How long is the flight from Jersey to London?
The flight from Jersey (JER) to Gatwick (LGW) takes about 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 161 miles (259 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Jersey to London flight path pass over?
During the short flight, the aircraft crosses the English Channel at roughly 15,000-20,000 feet. The midpoint offers views of open water with the Hampshire/Sussex coastline (Selsey Bill area) becoming visible ahead. The Isle of Wight may be visible to the left (west) depending on exact flight path. The descent begins over the South Downs and Weald of Surrey.