While takeoff offers Thames estuary views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic and sustained scenery: the Øresund Strait crossing and the transition from open water to the Danish-Swedish border landscape is more visually distinctive than the English departure.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the North Sea at roughly 25,000-30,000 feet. At midpoint, you're over open water with no visible landmarks—the sea appears as a uniform blue-grey expanse. As you approach Danish airspace, the German coast (Schleswig-Holstein region) becomes visible on the left around 45 minutes into flight, showing the North Frisian coastline and inland lakes. The descent begins over the Kattegat strait, with the Danish coastline becoming increasingly detailed as you approach Copenhagen from the west.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Gatwick (LGW) to Kastrup (CPH)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Copenhagen. While takeoff offers Thames estuary views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic and sustained scenery: the Øresund Strait crossing and the transition from open water to the Danish-Swedish border landscape is more visually distinctive than the English departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Gatwick in London?
During takeoff from Gatwick (LGW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Thames estuary and the Kent coastline as the aircraft climbs out on a northeasterly heading. You'll see the distinctive curve of the Thames delta and the North Sea coast stretching toward the horizon. Notable sights include: Thames estuary, Kent coastline, North Sea, Greater London urban sprawl to the southwest.
What can I see when landing at Kastrup in Copenhagen?
When landing at Kastrup (CPH), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Copenhagen. You'll see the Danish coastline, the Øresund Strait separating Denmark from Sweden, and the approach over the flat Danish landscape with its characteristic lakes and forests. Notable sights include: Øresund Strait, Swedish coast (Scania region), Danish lakes and forests, Copenhagen urban area.
How long is the flight from London to Copenhagen?
The flight from Gatwick (LGW) to Kastrup (CPH) takes Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.
What does the London to Copenhagen flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Sea at roughly 25,000-30,000 feet. At midpoint, you're over open water with no visible landmarks—the sea appears as a uniform blue-grey expanse. As you approach Danish airspace, the German coast (Schleswig-Holstein region) becomes visible on the left around 45 minutes into flight, showing the North Frisian coastline and inland lakes. The descent begins over the Kattegat strait, with the Danish coastline becoming increasingly detailed as you approach Copenhagen from the west.