About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Heathrow (LHR) to Orlando International (MCO)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Orlando. The left side wins overall. The London departure view is genuinely spectacular with the Thames and city laid out clearly, and over the Atlantic the left side faces south toward the Azores archipelago as you pass. On the North American side, the left seat also captures the New England coastline and Long Island Sound during the descent toward the eastern seaboard before the route curves south toward Florida.
What can I see during takeoff from Heathrow in London?
During takeoff from Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Heathrow departures on runway 27L/27R head westbound, and a left-side seat gives you a clear view south over central London during the initial climb and turn. You'll see the Thames snaking through the city, the dense urban grid of west London, and on clear days the City of London skyline to the east. Notable sights include: River Thames through central London, Windsor Castle and Windsor Great Park to the southwest, the M25 orbital motorway ring, Wembley Stadium arch.
What can I see when landing at Orlando International in Orlando?
When landing at Orlando International (MCO), sit on the Right side for the best views. MCO typically uses runways 17L/17R or 18L/18R for southbound arrivals, meaning the approach comes in from the north. A right-side seat gives you the best view of the chain of Central Florida lakes, the Walt Disney World resort complex to the southwest, and the broader Orlando urban area on final approach. Notable sights include: Walt Disney World resort complex and its distinctive park layouts, Lake Tohopekaliga and the chain of Central Florida lakes, Orlando downtown skyline, Interstate 4 corridor.
How long is the flight from London to Orlando?
The flight from Heathrow (LHR) to Orlando International (MCO) takes Approximately 9 to 9.5 hours westbound.
What does the London to Orlando flight path pass over?
The route tracks northwest over Ireland, then follows a North Atlantic great circle track passing south of Greenland and Iceland. Mid-Atlantic you may glimpse the Azores islands far to the south on a clear day. Approaching North America, the route crosses Newfoundland or Nova Scotia, then tracks down the US East Coast passing over or near New England, New York, and the Mid-Atlantic states before curving southwest toward Florida. The Gulf Stream is visible as a distinct colour change in the ocean surface in good visibility.