Although left wins the dramatic takeoff over the Thames and North Sea, right dominates the landing sequence with one of Europe's most visually striking fjord approaches. The Alesund fjord system—with its steep granite walls, island maze, and harbor setting—delivers 4.0+ scenery during descent and approach, outweighing the left side's takeoff advantage. The cruise phase over the North Sea is featureless on both sides, so the landing experience determines the overall winner.
Flown LGW to AES? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
London to Alesund is 823 miles (1,324 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
North Sea (open water, featureless), Dogger Bank fishing grounds, Norwegian continental shelf, transition to Norwegian coastal waters with scattered skerries and small fjords north of Bergen, Sognefjord visible to the south during descent
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from LGW
LEFTLeft side captures the Thames estuary, Kent coastline, and the North Sea approach during westward departure (runway 26). Right side faces inland toward the Weald and Surrey, offering only rolling countryside with no water features or dramatic terrain.
Landing at AES
RIGHTRight side (north) offers the dramatic approach to Alesund's fjord system, with Geirangerfjord and surrounding peaks visible during descent. Left side (south) faces open Norwegian Sea with minimal coastal features until the final approach turn.
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 Gatwick (LGW) to Vigra (AES)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Alesund. Although left wins the dramatic takeoff over the Thames and North Sea, right dominates the landing sequence with one of Europe's most visually striking fjord approaches. The Alesund fjord system—with its steep granite walls, island maze, and harbor setting—delivers 4.0+ scenery during descent and approach, outweighing the left side's takeoff advantage. The cruise phase over the North Sea is featureless on both sides, so the landing experience determines the overall winner.
What can I see during takeoff from Gatwick in London?
During takeoff from Gatwick (LGW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures the Thames estuary, Kent coastline, and the North Sea approach during westward departure (runway 26). Right side faces inland toward the Weald and Surrey, offering only rolling countryside with no water features or dramatic terrain. Notable sights include: Thames estuary and marshlands, Kent coast near Margate, North Sea horizon.
What can I see when landing at Vigra in Alesund?
When landing at Vigra (AES), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (north) offers the dramatic approach to Alesund's fjord system, with Geirangerfjord and surrounding peaks visible during descent. Left side (south) faces open Norwegian Sea with minimal coastal features until the final approach turn. Notable sights include: Geirangerfjord with steep granite walls, Sunnylvsfjord, Storfjord, Alesund harbor and islands.
How long is the flight from London to Alesund?
The flight from Gatwick (LGW) to Vigra (AES) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 823 miles (1,324 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the London to Alesund flight path pass over?
North Sea (open water, featureless), Dogger Bank fishing grounds, Norwegian continental shelf, transition to Norwegian coastal waters with scattered skerries and small fjords north of Bergen, Sognefjord visible to the south during descent