About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Gatwick (LGW) to Punta Cana International (PUJ)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Punta Cana. While the right side wins at Gatwick departure, the left side delivers the more spectacular payoff at arrival with the Punta Cana coastline and reef. Over the Atlantic crossing itself, both sides are largely ocean, but the left side also picks up the northern coast of Hispaniola and the Dominican Republic's mountainous interior during the final approach phase, making it the better overall choice.
What can I see during takeoff from Gatwick in London?
During takeoff from Gatwick (LGW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Gatwick's primary runway 26L means departure heads westward initially before turning southwest. The right side gives you views over the Surrey Hills and the North Downs as you climb, with the urban sprawl of Crawley and Horley visible below. Left side faces north toward Redhill and is less interesting. Notable sights include: Surrey Hills AONB, North Downs ridge, Crawley town grid, Ashdown Forest to the southeast.
What can I see when landing at Punta Cana International in Punta Cana?
When landing at Punta Cana International (PUJ), sit on the Left side for the best views. PUJ's primary runway 08 means aircraft approach from the west heading east, so the left side faces north toward the Atlantic coastline and the famous Bavaro and Punta Cana beach strip. You get a clear view of the turquoise Caribbean-Atlantic waters, the barrier reef line, and the palm-lined coast as you descend. Notable sights include: Bavaro Beach coastline, Atlantic reef line visible as turquoise-to-deep-blue color change, Punta Cana resort strip, Yuma Bay.
How long is the flight from London to Punta Cana?
The flight from Gatwick (LGW) to Punta Cana International (PUJ) takes Approximately 9 to 10 hours.
What does the London to Punta Cana flight path pass over?
The route tracks southwest over the Bay of Biscay, then across the Iberian Peninsula or just off the Portuguese coast, before heading out over the open North Atlantic. The Azores archipelago may be visible far to the north depending on the exact routing. The flight then crosses the mid-Atlantic with no land until approaching the Caribbean, where the eastern tip of Hispaniola and the mountainous Cordillera Oriental of the Dominican Republic become visible on descent.