While the takeoff offers Thames estuary views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery: the Red Sea's turquoise waters and the transition from sea to desert plateau are far more striking than the English lowlands. Right seats capture the most memorable segment of this route.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the Alps (visible from altitude as a snow-capped ridge during climb-out), the Mediterranean coast near southern France or Italy, the Balkans, the eastern Mediterranean, and the Levantine coast before turning southeast toward Saudi Arabia. The Nile Delta is visible during the approach to Egyptian airspace. The Red Sea is crossed entirely during descent into Madinah.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Heathrow (LHR) to Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz (MED)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Madinah. While the takeoff offers Thames estuary views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery: the Red Sea's turquoise waters and the transition from sea to desert plateau are far more striking than the English lowlands. Right seats capture the most memorable segment of this route.
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 seats offer views of the Thames estuary and Kent coastline as the aircraft climbs westward out of Heathrow. The river's distinctive meanders and the North Sea coast are visible within the first 15 minutes of flight. Notable sights include: River Thames estuary, Kent coastline, English Channel, North Downs ridge.
What can I see when landing at Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz in Madinah?
When landing at Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz (MED), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right seats provide views of the Red Sea coast and the approach to Madinah from the west. The Red Sea's distinctive turquoise waters and the Saudi Arabian desert plateau are visible during descent into Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport. Notable sights include: Red Sea coastline, Saudi Arabian desert plateau, Hejaz Mountains, Madinah oasis.
How long is the flight from London to Madinah?
The flight from Heathrow (LHR) to Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz (MED) takes 5h 50m.
What does the London to Madinah flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Alps (visible from altitude as a snow-capped ridge during climb-out), the Mediterranean coast near southern France or Italy, the Balkans, the eastern Mediterranean, and the Levantine coast before turning southeast toward Saudi Arabia. The Nile Delta is visible during the approach to Egyptian airspace. The Red Sea is crossed entirely during descent into Madinah.