Right side scores 3.5 vs left's 2.5 due to superior scenery on both legs. Takeoff offers genuine Mediterranean coastal drama (harbor, islands, sea), while landing provides the English countryside and North Downs—a marked contrast from the ocean crossing. Left side sees mainly open water during cruise and less distinctive terrain on approach. The full flight experience on the right combines departure harbor interest, mid-flight coastal views, and arrival countryside drama.
Flown MRS to LGW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Marseille to London is 589 miles (949 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
English Channel crossing (approximately 50 miles of open water), Isle of Wight and Dorset coast visible during descent into southern England, New Forest heathland, South Downs ridge
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MRS
RIGHTRight side captures the Mediterranean coastline and Marseille harbor during departure. With typical Mistral winds favoring runway 31 (northwesterly heading), the aircraft climbs northwest initially, then turns northeast toward the UK. Right-side passengers see the Côte d'Azur, Marseille's port, and the Îles d'Hyères before the turn.
Landing at LGW
RIGHTRight side offers superior approach scenery into Gatwick. With prevailing southwesterly winds favoring runway 26 (westward landing), aircraft descend from the east over the Weald and Surrey Hills. Right-side passengers see the rolling green countryside, the North Downs, and suburban London sprawl approaching the airport.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Provence (MRS) to Gatwick (LGW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Marseille to London. Right side scores 3.5 vs left's 2.5 due to superior scenery on both legs. Takeoff offers genuine Mediterranean coastal drama (harbor, islands, sea), while landing provides the English countryside and North Downs—a marked contrast from the ocean crossing. Left side sees mainly open water during cruise and less distinctive terrain on approach. The full flight experience on the right combines departure harbor interest, mid-flight coastal views, and arrival countryside drama.
What can I see during takeoff from Provence in Marseille?
During takeoff from Provence (MRS), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures the Mediterranean coastline and Marseille harbor during departure. With typical Mistral winds favoring runway 31 (northwesterly heading), the aircraft climbs northwest initially, then turns northeast toward the UK. Right-side passengers see the Côte d'Azur, Marseille's port, and the Îles d'Hyères before the turn. Notable sights include: Marseille harbor and Vieux Port, Mediterranean Sea coastline, Îles d'Hyères (Porquerolles, Port-Cros), Provence coastal cliffs.
What can I see when landing at Gatwick in London?
When landing at Gatwick (LGW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers superior approach scenery into Gatwick. With prevailing southwesterly winds favoring runway 26 (westward landing), aircraft descend from the east over the Weald and Surrey Hills. Right-side passengers see the rolling green countryside, the North Downs, and suburban London sprawl approaching the airport. Notable sights include: North Downs ridge, Surrey Hills, Weald farmland and forests, suburban London development (Croydon, Redhill areas).
How long is the flight from Marseille to London?
The flight from Provence (MRS) to Gatwick (LGW) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 589 miles (949 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Marseille to London flight path pass over?
English Channel crossing (approximately 50 miles of open water), Isle of Wight and Dorset coast visible during descent into southern England, New Forest heathland, South Downs ridge