About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Licenciado Benito Juarez International (MEX) to Heathrow (LHR)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Mexico City to London. The volcanic departure view from the right side over Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl is one of the most dramatic takeoff panoramas in commercial aviation. The London arrival on the left is excellent but more familiar. Right side also captures the Gulf of Mexico coastline during the initial northward track.
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. MEX typically departs on runway 05R heading northeast, which puts the right side facing southeast toward the Sierra Nevada volcanic chain. You get a direct broadside view of Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl as the aircraft climbs out over the Valley of Mexico. Notable sights include: Popocatépetl (active volcano, 17,802 ft), Iztaccíhuatl (dormant volcano, 17,159 ft), Lake Texcoco remnant basin, urban sprawl of Mexico City's eastern districts.
What can I see when landing at Heathrow in London?
When landing at Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Heathrow predominantly uses westerly runway approaches (27L/27R), meaning aircraft arrive from the east over London. The left side faces south, giving clear views of central London landmarks, the Thames, and the city skyline during the long final approach. Notable sights include: River Thames snaking through central London, Canary Wharf tower cluster, The Shard and City of London skyline, Windsor Castle and Windsor Great Park to the west.
How long is the flight from Mexico City to London?
The flight from Licenciado Benito Juarez International (MEX) to Heathrow (LHR) takes Approximately 10 to 11 hours.
What does the Mexico City to London flight path pass over?
After departing Mexico City the route tracks northeast over the Gulf of Mexico, crossing the Yucatan Peninsula or open Gulf depending on routing. It then crosses the Atlantic, passing south of Greenland or over the North Atlantic tracks near 50-55 degrees North. Mid-Atlantic has no land features but the Gulf Stream boundary is sometimes visible as a color change in the water. Approaching Europe, the route crosses Ireland or southwest England before descending into London.