The right side captures the most dramatic scenery on departure—the Strait of Malacca and Southeast Asian maritime geography—which outweighs the landing advantage of the left side. The takeoff views are more visually distinctive than the landing approach.
Flown MES to LHR? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Medan to London is 6,417 miles (10,327 km), a flight of about 13 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Indian Ocean, passing over the Arabian Sea, with potential views of the Himalayas during the approach to Central Asia, the Caspian Sea region, and eventually the Alps before descending into London. Over the Arabian Peninsula and Middle East, passengers may see the Persian Gulf, Zagros Mountains, and the Mesopotamian plains depending on exact routing and atmospheric conditions.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MES
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Strait of Malacca and the Malay Peninsula's western coastline as the aircraft climbs northwestward. The strait's shipping traffic and the contrast between Sumatra's dense vegetation and open water create compelling visual interest during the initial climb.
Landing at LHR
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the descent approach to London. The Thames estuary, Greater London's sprawl, and the distinctive bend of the river near Heathrow offer clear urban geography. Clear views of central London's landmarks and the surrounding green belt are typical from this angle.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Soewondo Air Force Base (MES) to Heathrow (LHR)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Medan to London. The right side captures the most dramatic scenery on departure—the Strait of Malacca and Southeast Asian maritime geography—which outweighs the landing advantage of the left side. The takeoff views are more visually distinctive than the landing approach.
What can I see during takeoff from Soewondo Air Force Base in Medan?
During takeoff from Soewondo Air Force Base (MES), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Strait of Malacca and the Malay Peninsula's western coastline as the aircraft climbs northwestward. The strait's shipping traffic and the contrast between Sumatra's dense vegetation and open water create compelling visual interest during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Strait of Malacca, Sumatra's northern coastline, Penang Island, Andaman Sea.
What can I see when landing at Heathrow in London?
When landing at Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the descent approach to London. The Thames estuary, Greater London's sprawl, and the distinctive bend of the river near Heathrow offer clear urban geography. Clear views of central London's landmarks and the surrounding green belt are typical from this angle. Notable sights include: Thames estuary and river bends, Greater London urban area, Windsor Castle vicinity, Heathrow's location relative to London center.
How long is the flight from Medan to London?
The flight from Soewondo Air Force Base (MES) to Heathrow (LHR) takes about 13 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 6,417 miles (10,327 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Medan to London flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Indian Ocean, passing over the Arabian Sea, with potential views of the Himalayas during the approach to Central Asia, the Caspian Sea region, and eventually the Alps before descending into London. Over the Arabian Peninsula and Middle East, passengers may see the Persian Gulf, Zagros Mountains, and the Mesopotamian plains depending on exact routing and atmospheric conditions.