About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Heathrow (LHR) to Grand Central (GCJ)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Johannesburg. The right side delivers the most dramatic single moment of the flight with the London departure view over the Thames and city. The landing views at Grand Central are more modest on either side, so the right side's takeoff advantage tips the balance for the overall flight experience.
What can I see during takeoff from Heathrow in London?
During takeoff from Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Right side for the best views. Heathrow departures on the eastbound runways (09L/09R) swing south over London, giving the right side a clear view of the Thames snaking through the city, the Docklands, and central London landmarks. The left side faces north toward suburban Middlesex with little of interest. Notable sights include: River Thames bends through central London, Canary Wharf tower cluster in Docklands, Windsor Castle and Great Park to the west if departing westbound on 27L/27R, the M25 orbital motorway arc.
What can I see when landing at Grand Central in Johannesburg?
When landing at Grand Central (GCJ), sit on the Left side for the best views. Grand Central Airport sits northeast of Johannesburg. Aircraft typically approach from the north or east on runway 06/24. A left-side seat on approach gives a view over Sandton's dense high-rise CBD, the Johannesburg city centre skyline to the southwest, and the distinctive Magaliesberg ridge on the northern horizon. The right side faces open bushveld with little visual interest. Notable sights include: Sandton CBD high-rise cluster, Johannesburg city centre skyline to the southwest, Magaliesberg mountain ridge to the northwest, Hartbeespoort Dam visible on clear days to the northwest.
How long is the flight from London to Johannesburg?
The flight from Heathrow (LHR) to Grand Central (GCJ) takes Approximately 11 to 12 hours.
What does the London to Johannesburg flight path pass over?
The route tracks southeast over France and the Mediterranean, then crosses the Sahara Desert over Algeria, Niger, and Chad — vast sand seas and ergs visible for several hours. The Congo Basin rainforest follows, a dense unbroken green canopy. The flight then crosses into southern Africa over Zambia and Zimbabwe before descending into the Highveld plateau of Gauteng.