The right side wins overall because the cruise phase over the Alps offers sustained dramatic mountain scenery, including the Swiss Alps and Mont Blanc massif, outweighing the brief but strong lagoon view on landing.
Flown STN to VCE? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
London to Venice is 705 miles (1,135 km), a flight of about 2 hours 10 minutes.
Swiss Alps and Mont Blanc massif, Lake Geneva, the Po Valley plains of northern Italy
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpeg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from STN
RIGHTDeparting Stansted on runway 22 the aircraft climbs southwest before curving onto its southeast track, and during this turn the London skyline and the Thames estuary become briefly visible off the right side. Shortly after, as the route heads toward the Alps, the right side continues to offer the more interesting outlook.
Landing at VCE
LEFTOn approach to Venice from the northeast, the aircraft crosses the mainland before turning toward runway 22 over the lagoon. The historic city of Venice, its canals, and the barrier islands of the lagoon appear off the left side as the plane banks toward final approach, with the snowy Dolomites visible in the distance to the north.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Stansted (STN) to Venezia Tessera (VCE)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Venice. The right side wins overall because the cruise phase over the Alps offers sustained dramatic mountain scenery, including the Swiss Alps and Mont Blanc massif, outweighing the brief but strong lagoon view on landing.
What can I see during takeoff from Stansted in London?
During takeoff from Stansted (STN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing Stansted on runway 22 the aircraft climbs southwest before curving onto its southeast track, and during this turn the London skyline and the Thames estuary become briefly visible off the right side. Shortly after, as the route heads toward the Alps, the right side continues to offer the more interesting outlook. Notable sights include: London skyline, Thames Estuary, Essex countryside.
What can I see when landing at Venezia Tessera in Venice?
When landing at Venezia Tessera (VCE), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach to Venice from the northeast, the aircraft crosses the mainland before turning toward runway 22 over the lagoon. The historic city of Venice, its canals, and the barrier islands of the lagoon appear off the left side as the plane banks toward final approach, with the snowy Dolomites visible in the distance to the north. Notable sights include: Venice historic center and canals, Venetian Lagoon barrier islands, Dolomite peaks on the horizon.
How long is the flight from London to Venice?
The flight from Stansted (STN) to Venezia Tessera (VCE) takes about 2 hours 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 705 miles (1,135 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the London to Venice flight path pass over?
Swiss Alps and Mont Blanc massif, Lake Geneva, the Po Valley plains of northern Italy