While the takeoff offers London views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery: the Cantabrian Mountains, Bilbao's estuary, and the Bay of Biscay coastline are far more striking than the relatively flat Thames valley departure.
Flight Path
English Channel crossing (visible as open water with shipping lanes), Normandy and Brittany coasts of France, Loire Valley region, transition into the Pyrenees foothills as you approach Spanish airspace, and the Bay of Biscay opening to the west
Phase by phase
Takeoff from
Landing at
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
.jpeg?width=600)
Will your flight be in sunlight?
See exactly which side of the plane gets sun and shade at your departure time.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Heathrow (LHR) to Bilbao (BIO)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Bilbao. While the takeoff offers London views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery: the Cantabrian Mountains, Bilbao's estuary, and the Bay of Biscay coastline are far more striking than the relatively flat Thames valley departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Heathrow in London?
During takeoff from Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the Thames estuary, London's urban sprawl, and the North Downs as you climb out westbound. Right side faces inland toward less distinctive terrain. Notable sights include: Thames estuary and tidal flats, Greater London urban grid, North Downs ridge, Windsor Castle area.
What can I see when landing at Bilbao in Bilbao?
When landing at Bilbao (BIO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides excellent views of the Basque coast, the Bay of Biscay, and the Cantabrian Mountains as you descend toward Bilbao. The approach path brings these features into clear view on the right side of the aircraft. Notable sights include: Cantabrian Mountains (Picos de Europa region), Bilbao estuary and Nervión River, Bay of Biscay coastline, Bilbao city and industrial areas.
How long is the flight from London to Bilbao?
The flight from Heathrow (LHR) to Bilbao (BIO) takes 1h 15m.
What does the London to Bilbao flight path pass over?
English Channel crossing (visible as open water with shipping lanes), Normandy and Brittany coasts of France, Loire Valley region, transition into the Pyrenees foothills as you approach Spanish airspace, and the Bay of Biscay opening to the west