Right side scores marginally higher due to superior takeoff scenery (Loire estuary and Atlantic coast are more visually distinctive than flat inland plains), while landing scenery is roughly equal between sides. The takeoff advantage on the right outweighs the landing balance, making right-side seats the better overall choice for this short, relatively flat route.
Flown NTE to LCY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Nantes to London is 310 miles (499 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
English Channel crossing (open water, 45 minutes of flight), Normandy coast near Dieppe or Étretat (chalk cliffs visible on clear days from altitude), Kent countryside and North Downs approaching London
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from NTE
RIGHTRunway 21 departures (prevailing winds) turn northeast over the Loire estuary and Atlantic coast, offering immediate water and coastal views. Runway 03 departures (northerly winds) climb inland over flat Nantes suburbs with minimal scenery.
Landing at LCY
LEFTRunway 27 arrivals (prevailing winds) descend over the Thames estuary and Docklands, providing dramatic urban and water scenery. Runway 09 arrivals (easterly winds) approach over flat Essex countryside with minimal landmarks.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Nantes Atlantique (NTE) to City (LCY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Nantes to London. Right side scores marginally higher due to superior takeoff scenery (Loire estuary and Atlantic coast are more visually distinctive than flat inland plains), while landing scenery is roughly equal between sides. The takeoff advantage on the right outweighs the landing balance, making right-side seats the better overall choice for this short, relatively flat route.
What can I see during takeoff from Nantes Atlantique in Nantes?
During takeoff from Nantes Atlantique (NTE), sit on the Right side for the best views. Runway 21 departures (prevailing winds) turn northeast over the Loire estuary and Atlantic coast, offering immediate water and coastal views. Runway 03 departures (northerly winds) climb inland over flat Nantes suburbs with minimal scenery. Notable sights include: Loire estuary mouth, Atlantic coastline near Saint-Nazaire, Nantes city grid, flat Loire Valley plains.
What can I see when landing at City in London?
When landing at City (LCY), sit on the Left side for the best views. Runway 27 arrivals (prevailing winds) descend over the Thames estuary and Docklands, providing dramatic urban and water scenery. Runway 09 arrivals (easterly winds) approach over flat Essex countryside with minimal landmarks. Notable sights include: Thames estuary and river bends, Docklands skyscrapers and Isle of Dogs, London city center skyline, North Sea coast near Essex.
How long is the flight from Nantes to London?
The flight from Nantes Atlantique (NTE) to City (LCY) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 310 miles (499 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Nantes to London flight path pass over?
English Channel crossing (open water, 45 minutes of flight), Normandy coast near Dieppe or Étretat (chalk cliffs visible on clear days from altitude), Kent countryside and North Downs approaching London