Left side scores higher due to the dramatic volcanic coastal departure from Porto Santo, which provides genuine scenic interest during takeoff and climb-out. While London City's landing approach on the right is visually engaging with urban and river features, the majority of this 5+ hour flight crosses open Atlantic Ocean on both sides, limiting overall scenic value. The left side's superior departure experience and slightly more interesting cruise-phase coastal views of the UK and Ireland outweigh the right side's landing advantage.
Flown PXO to LCY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Porto Santo to London is 1,517 miles (2,442 km), a flight of about 3 hours 35 minutes.
Bay of Biscay (open ocean, 2-3 hours), Irish coastline including Dingle Peninsula and Cliffs of Moher (visible on left during cruise), Celtic Sea, Bristol Channel, Welsh coastline, English Channel approaches, Thames Estuary
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from PXO
LEFTPorto Santo airport sits on a small island with dramatic coastal cliffs and the Atlantic immediately visible during climb-out. Left side captures the rugged northern coastline of Porto Santo and surrounding ocean, while right side faces inland toward flat terrain.
Landing at LCY
RIGHTLondon City Airport's approach over the Thames Estuary and central London offers superior urban scenery. Right side captures the river's distinctive meanders, the Isle of Dogs, Canary Wharf's skyline, and the City of London during final descent, while left side faces the flat Essex marshlands and industrial areas north of the Thames.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Porto Santo (PXO) to City (LCY)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Porto Santo to London. Left side scores higher due to the dramatic volcanic coastal departure from Porto Santo, which provides genuine scenic interest during takeoff and climb-out. While London City's landing approach on the right is visually engaging with urban and river features, the majority of this 5+ hour flight crosses open Atlantic Ocean on both sides, limiting overall scenic value. The left side's superior departure experience and slightly more interesting cruise-phase coastal views of the UK and Ireland outweigh the right side's landing advantage.
What can I see during takeoff from Porto Santo in Porto Santo?
During takeoff from Porto Santo (PXO), sit on the Left side for the best views. Porto Santo airport sits on a small island with dramatic coastal cliffs and the Atlantic immediately visible during climb-out. Left side captures the rugged northern coastline of Porto Santo and surrounding ocean, while right side faces inland toward flat terrain. Notable sights include: Porto Santo's volcanic cliffs, Atlantic Ocean horizon, nearby smaller islands in the archipelago, coastal settlement patterns.
What can I see when landing at City in London?
When landing at City (LCY), sit on the Right side for the best views. London City Airport's approach over the Thames Estuary and central London offers superior urban scenery. Right side captures the river's distinctive meanders, the Isle of Dogs, Canary Wharf's skyline, and the City of London during final descent, while left side faces the flat Essex marshlands and industrial areas north of the Thames. Notable sights include: Thames Estuary meanders, Isle of Dogs peninsula, Canary Wharf tower cluster, City of London skyline, Tower Bridge area.
How long is the flight from Porto Santo to London?
The flight from Porto Santo (PXO) to City (LCY) takes about 3 hours 35 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,517 miles (2,442 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Porto Santo to London flight path pass over?
Bay of Biscay (open ocean, 2-3 hours), Irish coastline including Dingle Peninsula and Cliffs of Moher (visible on left during cruise), Celtic Sea, Bristol Channel, Welsh coastline, English Channel approaches, Thames Estuary