The right side offers consistent coastal interest — Thames Estuary views on departure and the dramatic Firth of Forth approach into Edinburgh — while the left side over the Pennines offers only modest, hazy upland scenery.
Flown LCY to EDI? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
London to Edinburgh is 337 miles (543 km), a flight of about 1 hour 20 minutes.
The route crosses eastern England near the Yorkshire coast and Durham countryside, with the North Sea visible intermittently to the right before the Firth of Forth comes into view on descent.
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpeg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from LCY
RIGHTDeparting LCY on runway 27, the climb-out curves north over the Thames and Docklands, giving right-side passengers a last look at Canary Wharf's towers and the river bends before the turn north puts the North Sea coastline ahead on that side.
Landing at EDI
RIGHTArrivals into EDI on runway 24 typically come from the northeast over the Firth of Forth, so right-side passengers get a clear view of the Forth's coastline, Bass Rock, and the Fife shoreline before the final turn toward Edinburgh.
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 City (LCY) to Edinburgh (EDI)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Edinburgh. The right side offers consistent coastal interest — Thames Estuary views on departure and the dramatic Firth of Forth approach into Edinburgh — while the left side over the Pennines offers only modest, hazy upland scenery.
What can I see during takeoff from City in London?
During takeoff from City (LCY), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing LCY on runway 27, the climb-out curves north over the Thames and Docklands, giving right-side passengers a last look at Canary Wharf's towers and the river bends before the turn north puts the North Sea coastline ahead on that side. Notable sights include: Thames River, Canary Wharf, Docklands, O2 Arena.
What can I see when landing at Edinburgh in Edinburgh?
When landing at Edinburgh (EDI), sit on the Right side for the best views. Arrivals into EDI on runway 24 typically come from the northeast over the Firth of Forth, so right-side passengers get a clear view of the Forth's coastline, Bass Rock, and the Fife shoreline before the final turn toward Edinburgh. Notable sights include: Firth of Forth, Bass Rock, Fife coastline, East Lothian coast.
How long is the flight from London to Edinburgh?
The flight from City (LCY) to Edinburgh (EDI) takes about 1 hour 20 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 337 miles (543 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the London to Edinburgh flight path pass over?
The route crosses eastern England near the Yorkshire coast and Durham countryside, with the North Sea visible intermittently to the right before the Firth of Forth comes into view on descent.