Right side edges ahead due to superior departure scenery from London City Airport's Runway 27 (Thames, Canary Wharf, Docklands), which is used more frequently with prevailing westerly winds. Landing views are roughly equal on both sides, but the dramatic urban-to-river transition during London departure gives Right a slight overall advantage. This is a short, relatively flat route with limited terrain drama—both sides score modestly.
Flown LCY to NTE? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
London to Nantes is 310 miles (499 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
English Channel crossing (approximately 20 minutes of open water), Normandy coast near Dieppe or Étretat (chalk cliffs visible in clear conditions), Seine River valley, Brittany countryside with bocage landscape (hedgerow-divided fields), Loire Valley approaching Nantes
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from LCY
RIGHTRunway 27 departures (prevailing westerly winds) offer views of the Thames, Canary Wharf, and Docklands during the initial climb-out before turning southwest toward France. Left side sees suburban London and open countryside immediately.
Landing at NTE
LEFTRunway 21 approaches (prevailing southwest winds) bring aircraft from the northeast over the Loire Valley and Nantes city center. Left-side passengers see the Loire River's distinctive loops, Nantes' urban core, and the surrounding agricultural landscape during descent and final approach.
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 Nantes Atlantique (NTE)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Nantes. Right side edges ahead due to superior departure scenery from London City Airport's Runway 27 (Thames, Canary Wharf, Docklands), which is used more frequently with prevailing westerly winds. Landing views are roughly equal on both sides, but the dramatic urban-to-river transition during London departure gives Right a slight overall advantage. This is a short, relatively flat route with limited terrain drama—both sides score modestly.
What can I see during takeoff from City in London?
During takeoff from City (LCY), sit on the Right side for the best views. Runway 27 departures (prevailing westerly winds) offer views of the Thames, Canary Wharf, and Docklands during the initial climb-out before turning southwest toward France. Left side sees suburban London and open countryside immediately. Notable sights include: River Thames with its distinctive meanders, Canary Wharf tower complex, London Docklands, suburban sprawl transitioning to Essex countryside.
What can I see when landing at Nantes Atlantique in Nantes?
When landing at Nantes Atlantique (NTE), sit on the Left side for the best views. Runway 21 approaches (prevailing southwest winds) bring aircraft from the northeast over the Loire Valley and Nantes city center. Left-side passengers see the Loire River's distinctive loops, Nantes' urban core, and the surrounding agricultural landscape during descent and final approach. Notable sights include: Loire River with its characteristic meanders, Nantes city center and harbor district, surrounding Loire Valley farmland and vineyards, Île de Versailles in the Loire.
How long is the flight from London to Nantes?
The flight from City (LCY) to Nantes Atlantique (NTE) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 310 miles (499 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the London to Nantes flight path pass over?
English Channel crossing (approximately 20 minutes of open water), Normandy coast near Dieppe or Étretat (chalk cliffs visible in clear conditions), Seine River valley, Brittany countryside with bocage landscape (hedgerow-divided fields), Loire Valley approaching Nantes