Both sides score equally at 2.5 due to the flight's short duration (approximately 2 hours 15 minutes) and ocean-dominated cruise phase. However, the right side edges ahead for the landing sequence: the Thames estuary, Essex countryside, and London's urban periphery provide more varied and recognizable landmarks during descent than the left side's open Atlantic and North Sea views. The takeoff from Rabat favors the left, but the landing advantage on the right makes it the overall recommendation.
Flown RBA to STN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Rabat to London is 1,280 miles (2,061 km), a flight of about 3 hours 10 minutes.
Bay of Biscay (open Atlantic), English Channel crossing near the Cornish coast, Scilly Isles (if visible at altitude), Devon and Cornwall coastline, transition to Essex lowlands
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from RBA
LEFTLeft side captures Rabat's Atlantic coastline and the Bouregreg River estuary during initial climb, with the medina and harbor visible. Right side shows inland plains with minimal visual interest during departure.
Landing at STN
RIGHTRight side (northeast approach into Stansted) offers views of the Essex countryside, the Thames estuary, and Greater London's urban sprawl during descent. Left side shows the North Sea and open water with minimal landmarks during the final approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Sale (RBA) to Stansted (STN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Rabat to London. Both sides score equally at 2.5 due to the flight's short duration (approximately 2 hours 15 minutes) and ocean-dominated cruise phase. However, the right side edges ahead for the landing sequence: the Thames estuary, Essex countryside, and London's urban periphery provide more varied and recognizable landmarks during descent than the left side's open Atlantic and North Sea views. The takeoff from Rabat favors the left, but the landing advantage on the right makes it the overall recommendation.
What can I see during takeoff from Sale in Rabat?
During takeoff from Sale (RBA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures Rabat's Atlantic coastline and the Bouregreg River estuary during initial climb, with the medina and harbor visible. Right side shows inland plains with minimal visual interest during departure. Notable sights include: Bouregreg River estuary, Rabat medina and kasbah, Atlantic coastline, Sale across the river.
What can I see when landing at Stansted in London?
When landing at Stansted (STN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (northeast approach into Stansted) offers views of the Essex countryside, the Thames estuary, and Greater London's urban sprawl during descent. Left side shows the North Sea and open water with minimal landmarks during the final approach. Notable sights include: Thames estuary, Greater London urban area, Essex farmland and villages, Stansted airport complex.
How long is the flight from Rabat to London?
The flight from Sale (RBA) to Stansted (STN) takes about 3 hours 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,280 miles (2,061 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Rabat to London flight path pass over?
Bay of Biscay (open Atlantic), English Channel crossing near the Cornish coast, Scilly Isles (if visible at altitude), Devon and Cornwall coastline, transition to Essex lowlands