While takeoff offers desert scenery from the left, the landing approach into London City provides more dramatic and iconic views from the right side—the Thames, Canary Wharf, and central London are visually compelling. The landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.
Flown PHX to LCY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Phoenix to London is 5,275 miles (8,489 km), a flight of about 10 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the North American continent, passing over the Rocky Mountains (Colorado/Wyoming region), the Great Plains, the Atlantic coast near Newfoundland, the Atlantic Ocean, and approaches the British Isles from the southwest over the Celtic Sea and Wales before reaching London.
Great circle distance and headings ›
.jpg?width=600)
.jpeg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from PHX
LEFTLeft side offers views of the Phoenix metropolitan area and the surrounding desert terrain. The climb-out path from PHX typically heads northwest or northeast, positioning left-side passengers to see the city grid, Sky Harbor itself, and the Salt River valley expanding below.
Landing at LCY
RIGHTRight-side seats provide views during the approach into London City Airport. LCY is located on the Isle of Dogs in East London, and the approach typically comes from the east over the Thames estuary and central London. Right-side passengers will see the Thames, Canary Wharf, and central London landmarks during descent.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to City (LCY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Phoenix to London. While takeoff offers desert scenery from the left, the landing approach into London City provides more dramatic and iconic views from the right side—the Thames, Canary Wharf, and central London are visually compelling. The landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.
What can I see during takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International in Phoenix?
During takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the Phoenix metropolitan area and the surrounding desert terrain. The climb-out path from PHX typically heads northwest or northeast, positioning left-side passengers to see the city grid, Sky Harbor itself, and the Salt River valley expanding below. Notable sights include: Phoenix city center and sprawl, Salt River valley, desert scrubland extending south and east toward Superstition Mountains (distant).
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 seats provide views during the approach into London City Airport. LCY is located on the Isle of Dogs in East London, and the approach typically comes from the east over the Thames estuary and central London. Right-side passengers will see the Thames, Canary Wharf, and central London landmarks during descent. Notable sights include: River Thames with its distinctive meanders, Canary Wharf and Isle of Dogs development, central London urban fabric, North Sea coast and Essex marshlands (on approach).
How long is the flight from Phoenix to London?
The flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to City (LCY) takes about 10 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,275 miles (8,489 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Phoenix to London flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North American continent, passing over the Rocky Mountains (Colorado/Wyoming region), the Great Plains, the Atlantic coast near Newfoundland, the Atlantic Ocean, and approaches the British Isles from the southwest over the Celtic Sea and Wales before reaching London.