Takeoff views from the right are more distinctive (North Downs and Thames valley are geographically prominent). While landing favors the left, the departure experience is superior on this route.
Flight Path
The flight crosses the Atlantic at high altitude (35,000+ feet). Notable features include: Newfoundland's rocky coastline and Grand Banks (visible during early oceanic phase if daylight), the North Atlantic (featureless at cruise altitude), and the Canadian Shield's transition zone approaching Ottawa (visible during descent with boreal forest, lakes, and rocky terrain becoming apparent below 15,000 feet). The flight path roughly follows the great circle route across the Atlantic, passing south of Greenland and Iceland.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Gatwick (LGW) to Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Ottawa. Takeoff views from the right are more distinctive (North Downs and Thames valley are geographically prominent). While landing favors the left, the departure experience is superior on this route.
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 typically departs runway 26L or 26R (westbound). Right-side seats face north during initial climb, giving views of London's sprawl, the North Downs ridge, and the Thames valley. Left seats face south toward the Weald, which is less distinctive. Notable sights include: London urban area (south London suburbs visible as grid), North Downs escarpment (chalk ridge running east-west), Thames valley (broad depression north of airport), Croydon and Redhill towns (scattered development).
What can I see when landing at Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International in Ottawa?
When landing at Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Ottawa approaches from the east (runway 04/22 primary, with 04 favored for westbound arrivals). Left-side seats during descent face north, revealing the Canadian Shield's rocky terrain, the Gatineau Hills, and the Ottawa River's distinctive meanders. Right seats face south toward farmland, which is less visually striking. Notable sights include: Gatineau Hills (Canadian Shield bedrock, forested, north of Ottawa), Ottawa River (major waterway with visible meanders), Canadian Shield transition zone (rocky, boreal forest), Rideau Canal (linear water feature visible in city).
How long is the flight from London to Ottawa?
The flight from Gatwick (LGW) to Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW) takes Approximately 7 hours 15 minutes.
What does the London to Ottawa flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Atlantic at high altitude (35,000+ feet). Notable features include: Newfoundland's rocky coastline and Grand Banks (visible during early oceanic phase if daylight), the North Atlantic (featureless at cruise altitude), and the Canadian Shield's transition zone approaching Ottawa (visible during descent with boreal forest, lakes, and rocky terrain becoming apparent below 15,000 feet). The flight path roughly follows the great circle route across the Atlantic, passing south of Greenland and Iceland.