While the takeoff offers coastal scenery, the landing approach provides more dramatic and sustained views of significant geographical features—the Sierra de Guadarrama and the approach to Madrid itself. Left-side seats capture the most visually interesting portion of the flight.
Flown LGW to MAD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
London to Madrid is 754 miles (1,213 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
English Channel, Normandy coast, Loire Valley region of France, Massif Central plateau, Pyrenees mountains (visible on clear days as a distant ridge to the south), transition from French agricultural landscape to Spanish meseta
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from LGW
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the English Channel and the Sussex coastline during the initial climb-out from Gatwick. The aircraft typically departs southbound before turning southeast toward Spain, giving right-side passengers a clear view of the coast and open water.
Landing at MAD
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the descent into Madrid. The aircraft approaches from the northwest, and left-side passengers see the Spanish meseta (high plateau) terrain, the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains to the north, and the sprawl of Madrid itself as it descends toward Barajas.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Gatwick (LGW) to Barajas (MAD)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Madrid. While the takeoff offers coastal scenery, the landing approach provides more dramatic and sustained views of significant geographical features—the Sierra de Guadarrama and the approach to Madrid itself. Left-side seats capture the most visually interesting portion of the flight.
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 English Channel and the Sussex coastline during the initial climb-out from Gatwick. The aircraft typically departs southbound before turning southeast toward Spain, giving right-side passengers a clear view of the coast and open water. Notable sights include: English Channel, Sussex coastline near Brighton, Isle of Wight (visible in distance), South Downs ridge.
What can I see when landing at Barajas in Madrid?
When landing at Barajas (MAD), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the descent into Madrid. The aircraft approaches from the northwest, and left-side passengers see the Spanish meseta (high plateau) terrain, the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains to the north, and the sprawl of Madrid itself as it descends toward Barajas. Notable sights include: Sierra de Guadarrama mountains, Madrid city sprawl, Tagus River valley, Spanish meseta plateau.
How long is the flight from London to Madrid?
The flight from Gatwick (LGW) to Barajas (MAD) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 754 miles (1,213 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the London to Madrid flight path pass over?
English Channel, Normandy coast, Loire Valley region of France, Massif Central plateau, Pyrenees mountains (visible on clear days as a distant ridge to the south), transition from French agricultural landscape to Spanish meseta