While takeoff from Gatwick favors the left side with London's urban sprawl and Thames estuary, the landing approach into Marseille on the right side is significantly more scenic. The Rhône delta, Étang de Berre lagoon, and Mediterranean coastline provide dramatic natural features and distinctive landmarks that outweigh the takeoff advantage. The right side captures the transition from inland Provence to the sea, making it the stronger choice for the full flight.
Flown LGW to MRS? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
London to Marseille is 589 miles (949 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
English Channel crossing (20 minutes), French coastline near Normandy/Brittany, Loire Valley and central French plateau, Massif Central foothills, Rhône valley corridor approaching Provence
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from LGW
LEFTLeft side captures the London metropolitan area during climb-out, including the Thames estuary and suburban sprawl. Right side faces inland toward the Weald of Kent with minimal urban features.
Landing at MRS
RIGHTRight side offers superior approach scenery: the Rhône delta, Étang de Berre lagoon, and the Mediterranean coast with Marseille's harbor and urban waterfront. Left side shows inland Provence plateau with less dramatic terrain.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Gatwick (LGW) to Provence (MRS)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Marseille. While takeoff from Gatwick favors the left side with London's urban sprawl and Thames estuary, the landing approach into Marseille on the right side is significantly more scenic. The Rhône delta, Étang de Berre lagoon, and Mediterranean coastline provide dramatic natural features and distinctive landmarks that outweigh the takeoff advantage. The right side captures the transition from inland Provence to the sea, making it the stronger choice for the full flight.
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 London metropolitan area during climb-out, including the Thames estuary and suburban sprawl. Right side faces inland toward the Weald of Kent with minimal urban features. Notable sights include: Thames estuary, Greater London urban grid, Gatwick runway infrastructure, North Downs escarpment.
What can I see when landing at Provence in Marseille?
When landing at Provence (MRS), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers superior approach scenery: the Rhône delta, Étang de Berre lagoon, and the Mediterranean coast with Marseille's harbor and urban waterfront. Left side shows inland Provence plateau with less dramatic terrain. Notable sights include: Rhône delta wetlands, Étang de Berre lagoon, Marseille harbor and Old Port, Mediterranean coastline.
How long is the flight from London to Marseille?
The flight from Gatwick (LGW) to Provence (MRS) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 589 miles (949 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the London to Marseille flight path pass over?
English Channel crossing (20 minutes), French coastline near Normandy/Brittany, Loire Valley and central French plateau, Massif Central foothills, Rhône valley corridor approaching Provence