The right side wins both the takeoff and landing sequences: Sussex coastal cliffs on departure and the Alps with Lake Zurich on arrival give it far more visual drama than the flatter farmland views typically seen from the left side of this short route.
Flown LGW to ZRH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
London to Zurich is 468 miles (754 km), a flight of about 1 hour 50 minutes.
Rural farmland of the Champagne-Ardenne region in northern France, with the Vosges Mountains and the edge of the Jura range becoming visible as the route nears the French-Swiss border
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from LGW
RIGHTGatwick departures on runway 26 climb west then bank left onto an eastbound routing toward the continent, putting the Sussex coastline on the right side of the cabin. Passengers get a clear view of the South Downs and the chalk cliffs near the coast before the aircraft settles onto its cruise heading.
Landing at ZRH
RIGHTArrivals into Zurich on runway 28 approach from the west over the Jura foothills before turning onto final, keeping the Alpine skyline and Lake Zurich on the right side of the aircraft during descent. This gives a dramatic view that isn't matched on the northern (left) side, which mostly overlooks flatter Swiss and French farmland.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Gatwick (LGW) to Zurich (ZRH)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Zurich. The right side wins both the takeoff and landing sequences: Sussex coastal cliffs on departure and the Alps with Lake Zurich on arrival give it far more visual drama than the flatter farmland views typically seen from the left side of this short 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 departures on runway 26 climb west then bank left onto an eastbound routing toward the continent, putting the Sussex coastline on the right side of the cabin. Passengers get a clear view of the South Downs and the chalk cliffs near the coast before the aircraft settles onto its cruise heading. Notable sights include: South Downs, Seven Sisters/Beachy Head chalk cliffs, Brighton coastline, English Channel.
What can I see when landing at Zurich in Zurich?
When landing at Zurich (ZRH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Arrivals into Zurich on runway 28 approach from the west over the Jura foothills before turning onto final, keeping the Alpine skyline and Lake Zurich on the right side of the aircraft during descent. This gives a dramatic view that isn't matched on the northern (left) side, which mostly overlooks flatter Swiss and French farmland. Notable sights include: Swiss Alps skyline (Glärnisch, Säntis), Lake Zurich, Jura foothills, Zurich city outskirts.
How long is the flight from London to Zurich?
The flight from Gatwick (LGW) to Zurich (ZRH) takes about 1 hour 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 468 miles (754 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the London to Zurich flight path pass over?
Rural farmland of the Champagne-Ardenne region in northern France, with the Vosges Mountains and the edge of the Jura range becoming visible as the route nears the French-Swiss border