Right side scores higher due to superior scenic value at both takeoff and landing. The Mexico City departure showcases the dramatic high-altitude valley and urban sprawl, while the London approach delivers iconic Thames views and the Docklands skyline. The cruise phase over the Atlantic is equally uninteresting from both sides, but the bookend sequences favor the right side significantly.
Flown MEX to LCY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Mexico City to London is 5,553 miles (8,936 km), a flight of about 10 hours 45 minutes.
North Atlantic Ocean (5+ hours of open water with minimal visual interest from either side), Irish coast and Celtic Sea (if visible during daylight), Cornish Peninsula and English Channel approach (final 90 minutes before London descent)
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MEX
RIGHTRight side captures Mexico City's urban sprawl and the surrounding high-altitude valley basin during climb-out. Left side faces inland terrain with less immediate visual interest during the initial departure phase.
Landing at LCY
RIGHTRight side (north bank) offers superior views during approach to LCY. Passengers see the Thames winding through central London, the Docklands skyline, and the City of London's financial district before touchdown on runway 27. Left side faces south London suburbs with less dramatic urban scenery.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Licenciado Benito Juarez International (MEX) to City (LCY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Mexico City to London. Right side scores higher due to superior scenic value at both takeoff and landing. The Mexico City departure showcases the dramatic high-altitude valley and urban sprawl, while the London approach delivers iconic Thames views and the Docklands skyline. The cruise phase over the Atlantic is equally uninteresting from both sides, but the bookend sequences favor the right side significantly.
What can I see during takeoff from Licenciado Benito Juarez International in Mexico City?
During takeoff from Licenciado Benito Juarez International (MEX), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures Mexico City's urban sprawl and the surrounding high-altitude valley basin during climb-out. Left side faces inland terrain with less immediate visual interest during the initial departure phase. Notable sights include: Mexico City metropolitan area, Lake Texcoco remnants, Sierra de Guadalupe to the north, Valley of Mexico rim.
What can I see when landing at City in London?
When landing at City (LCY), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (north bank) offers superior views during approach to LCY. Passengers see the Thames winding through central London, the Docklands skyline, and the City of London's financial district before touchdown on runway 27. Left side faces south London suburbs with less dramatic urban scenery. Notable sights include: River Thames with its distinctive meanders, Canary Wharf and Docklands towers, Tower Bridge area, City of London skyline.
How long is the flight from Mexico City to London?
The flight from Licenciado Benito Juarez International (MEX) to City (LCY) takes about 10 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,553 miles (8,936 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Mexico City to London flight path pass over?
North Atlantic Ocean (5+ hours of open water with minimal visual interest from either side), Irish coast and Celtic Sea (if visible during daylight), Cornish Peninsula and English Channel approach (final 90 minutes before London descent)