While Pico's volcanic departure is visually striking, the right side (London approach) offers greater scenic variety and landmark density across the full flight. The Thames estuary, Greater London's urban complexity, and the Home Counties' distinctive patchwork provide more sustained visual interest during the critical landing phase than the left side's ocean-dominated cruise segment.
Flown PIX to LHR? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Pico to London is 1,617 miles (2,602 km), a flight of about 3 hours 45 minutes.
North Atlantic open ocean (5+ hours of water with no significant landmarks), Irish coastline briefly visible if routed via southern Ireland approach, Celtic Sea, Bristol Channel, and the English Channel near landfall
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PIX
LEFTPico Island's volcanic cone dominates the immediate departure view. The island's steep terrain and surrounding Atlantic waters create immediate visual drama during climb-out, with the neighboring Azores islands visible in the distance.
Landing at LHR
RIGHTThe approach to London Heathrow crosses the Thames estuary, Greater London's urban sprawl, and the distinctive patchwork of the Home Counties. The density of recognizable landmarks—the Thames meanders, London's skyline, suburban development patterns—provides sustained visual interest during descent and final approach.
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 Pico (PIX) to Heathrow (LHR)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Pico to London. While Pico's volcanic departure is visually striking, the right side (London approach) offers greater scenic variety and landmark density across the full flight. The Thames estuary, Greater London's urban complexity, and the Home Counties' distinctive patchwork provide more sustained visual interest during the critical landing phase than the left side's ocean-dominated cruise segment.
What can I see during takeoff from Pico in Pico?
During takeoff from Pico (PIX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Pico Island's volcanic cone dominates the immediate departure view. The island's steep terrain and surrounding Atlantic waters create immediate visual drama during climb-out, with the neighboring Azores islands visible in the distance. Notable sights include: Mount Pico (7,713 ft volcanic peak), Faial Island to the west, São Jorge Island to the northwest, Atlantic Ocean.
What can I see when landing at Heathrow in London?
When landing at Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Right side for the best views. The approach to London Heathrow crosses the Thames estuary, Greater London's urban sprawl, and the distinctive patchwork of the Home Counties. The density of recognizable landmarks—the Thames meanders, London's skyline, suburban development patterns—provides sustained visual interest during descent and final approach. Notable sights include: Thames estuary and river meanders, Greater London urban area, Windsor Castle vicinity, Heathrow's runway complex and surrounding motorways.
How long is the flight from Pico to London?
The flight from Pico (PIX) to Heathrow (LHR) takes about 3 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,617 miles (2,602 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Pico to London flight path pass over?
North Atlantic open ocean (5+ hours of water with no significant landmarks), Irish coastline briefly visible if routed via southern Ireland approach, Celtic Sea, Bristol Channel, and the English Channel near landfall