Left side scores higher due to the dramatic Thames estuary and London departure, which provides superior urban and water scenery during takeoff. While the landing favors the right (Apennines), the takeoff experience is more visually compelling and memorable. The flight's midpoint over the Alps and Swiss valleys is visible from both sides equally, but the London departure tips the overall balance to the left.
Flown LGW to BLQ? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
London to Bologna is 700 miles (1,126 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
English Channel crossing (narrow, often visible as a blue-grey band), French coast near Dieppe or Le Touquet, Seine River valley, Jura Mountains and Swiss Alps (Mont Blanc visible on clear days), Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) on the left side during cruise, Po River valley in northern Italy
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from LGW
LEFTLeft side captures the Thames estuary, London's urban sprawl, and the North Downs escarpment during climb-out from Gatwick. Right side faces inland toward the Weald—forested, undramatic terrain with minimal landmarks.
Landing at BLQ
RIGHTRight side offers the Apennine Mountains' dramatic northern foothills and the Po River valley approaching Bologna. Left side shows the flat Adriatic coastal plain—monotonous agricultural land with minimal visual interest during descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Gatwick (LGW) to Bologna (BLQ)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Bologna. Left side scores higher due to the dramatic Thames estuary and London departure, which provides superior urban and water scenery during takeoff. While the landing favors the right (Apennines), the takeoff experience is more visually compelling and memorable. The flight's midpoint over the Alps and Swiss valleys is visible from both sides equally, but the London departure tips the overall balance to the left.
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, London's urban sprawl, and the North Downs escarpment during climb-out from Gatwick. Right side faces inland toward the Weald—forested, undramatic terrain with minimal landmarks. Notable sights include: Thames estuary and its meandering channels, London's urban grid and landmarks (Shard, Canary Wharf visible at distance), North Downs ridge line.
What can I see when landing at Bologna in Bologna?
When landing at Bologna (BLQ), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers the Apennine Mountains' dramatic northern foothills and the Po River valley approaching Bologna. Left side shows the flat Adriatic coastal plain—monotonous agricultural land with minimal visual interest during descent. Notable sights include: Apennine Mountains' northern ridges and valleys, Po River valley floor, Bologna's urban sprawl and surrounding agricultural grid.
How long is the flight from London to Bologna?
The flight from Gatwick (LGW) to Bologna (BLQ) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 700 miles (1,126 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the London to Bologna flight path pass over?
English Channel crossing (narrow, often visible as a blue-grey band), French coast near Dieppe or Le Touquet, Seine River valley, Jura Mountains and Swiss Alps (Mont Blanc visible on clear days), Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) on the left side during cruise, Po River valley in northern Italy