About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Kansai International (KIX) to Heathrow (LHR)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Osaka to London. The London approach on the left side is the single most spectacular viewing moment of the entire flight — a prolonged, low-altitude pass over one of the world's most recognizable cities. While the right side wins at takeoff for Osaka views, the left side also captures Siberian river systems and the Norwegian coast during cruise, making it the better overall choice.
What can I see during takeoff from Kansai International in Osaka?
During takeoff from Kansai International (KIX), sit on the Right side for the best views. KIX typically departs northward on runway 06R/24L or uses runway 06L heading northeast over Osaka Bay. A right-side seat gives you the Osaka city skyline, the Yodo River delta, and the urban sprawl of the Kinki region as you climb out over the bay. The left side faces open water toward Awaji Island. Notable sights include: Osaka city center and Umeda skyline, Yodo River delta fanning into Osaka Bay, Kobe port and Rokko Mountains behind it, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge connecting Honshu to Awaji Island.
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 predominantly uses westerly runways (27L/27R) with aircraft approaching from the east over London. A left-side seat on final approach gives a clear view of central London — the Thames, the City, Canary Wharf, and the West End — as the aircraft tracks over east and south London. The right side faces the suburbs of Berkshire and Surrey with little of note. Notable sights include: Thames River snaking through central London, Canary Wharf tower cluster in east London, The City of London and St Paul's area, Windsor Castle and Windsor Great Park visible to the southwest on short final.
How long is the flight from Osaka to London?
The flight from Kansai International (KIX) to Heathrow (LHR) takes Approximately 13 to 14 hours.
What does the Osaka to London flight path pass over?
The route tracks north over the Sea of Japan, crosses the Russian Far East and the vast Siberian taiga, passes over the Ob and Yenisei river systems (enormous braided rivers visible as silver threads across flat tundra), crosses the Ural Mountains (a low, broad ridge), then transits over Moscow and the North European Plain, before descending across the North Sea and into England over East Anglia