While takeoff offers some Essex scenery, the landing descent provides far superior views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Sardinian granite coastline, and Costa Smeralda's distinctive bays. The approach to Olbia is the visual highlight of this route.
Flown STN to OLB? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
London to Olbia is 877 miles (1,411 km), a flight of about 2 hours 45 minutes.
English Channel, French coastline near Normandy, Alps visible on clear days as distant peaks, Mediterranean coast approaching Provence, Rhône Valley, Ligurian Sea, Italian Riviera coastline
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase

Takeoff from STN
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Essex coastline and Thames Estuary as the aircraft climbs southeastward from Stansted. You'll see the North Sea coast, river systems, and the patchwork of East Anglian farmland receding beneath you.
Landing at OLB
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Olbia. You'll see the Tyrrhenian Sea, the rocky granite coastline of northeastern Sardinia, and the distinctive bays and inlets around Costa Smeralda as you approach from the north.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Stansted (STN) to Olbia Costa Smeralda (OLB)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Olbia. While takeoff offers some Essex scenery, the landing descent provides far superior views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Sardinian granite coastline, and Costa Smeralda's distinctive bays. The approach to Olbia is the visual highlight of this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Stansted in London?
During takeoff from Stansted (STN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Essex coastline and Thames Estuary as the aircraft climbs southeastward from Stansted. You'll see the North Sea coast, river systems, and the patchwork of East Anglian farmland receding beneath you. Notable sights include: Thames Estuary, North Sea coastline, Essex marshlands, Colchester area.
What can I see when landing at Olbia Costa Smeralda in Olbia?
When landing at Olbia Costa Smeralda (OLB), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Olbia. You'll see the Tyrrhenian Sea, the rocky granite coastline of northeastern Sardinia, and the distinctive bays and inlets around Costa Smeralda as you approach from the north. Notable sights include: Tyrrhenian Sea, Sardinian granite coastline, Costa Smeralda bays, Porto Cervo area.
How long is the flight from London to Olbia?
The flight from Stansted (STN) to Olbia Costa Smeralda (OLB) takes about 2 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 877 miles (1,411 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the London to Olbia flight path pass over?
English Channel, French coastline near Normandy, Alps visible on clear days as distant peaks, Mediterranean coast approaching Provence, Rhône Valley, Ligurian Sea, Italian Riviera coastline