While the takeoff offers pleasant Thames and North Downs views, the landing approach provides the more dramatic and memorable scenery—the Pyrenees are genuinely striking from altitude and visible for much of the descent into Perpignan.
Flight Path
English Channel crossing (typically 20 minutes from Heathrow), Normandy and Brittany coastlines, Loire Valley, Massif Central foothills, Aquitaine plains, and the transition into the Mediterranean climate zone as the aircraft approaches the Pyrenees and Roussillon region
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 Rivesaltes (PGF)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Perpignan. While the takeoff offers pleasant Thames and North Downs views, the landing approach provides the more dramatic and memorable scenery—the Pyrenees are genuinely striking from altitude and visible for much of the descent into Perpignan.
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 and the North Downs as the aircraft climbs southwestward from Heathrow. Right side faces northwest toward the Chiltern Hills, which are less dramatic from this angle. Notable sights include: Thames estuary, North Downs, Greater London urban sprawl, Windsor Castle area.
What can I see when landing at Rivesaltes in Perpignan?
When landing at Rivesaltes (PGF), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides excellent views of the Pyrenees as the aircraft descends toward Perpignan from the north. The mountain range is visually striking and dominates the approach. Left side faces the Mediterranean coast, which is less distinctive during descent. Notable sights include: Pyrenees mountain range, Roussillon plain, Tech and Têt river valleys, Mediterranean coast.
How long is the flight from London to Perpignan?
The flight from Heathrow (LHR) to Rivesaltes (PGF) takes 2h 15m.
What does the London to Perpignan flight path pass over?
English Channel crossing (typically 20 minutes from Heathrow), Normandy and Brittany coastlines, Loire Valley, Massif Central foothills, Aquitaine plains, and the transition into the Mediterranean climate zone as the aircraft approaches the Pyrenees and Roussillon region