While the left side offers excellent alpine scenery on departure, the right side provides more sustained visual interest across the flight path—the English landscape during descent is more varied and extensive than the brief alpine views during Salzburg climb-out. Right seats capture both the Weald and North Downs approach sequence.
Flown SZG to LGW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Salzburg to London is 635 miles (1,022 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
English Channel crossing (visible as a blue-grey band separating France from England), Normandy and Sussex coastlines, the Weald of southeastern England, Thames estuary and Greater London metropolitan area on approach
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from SZG
LEFTLeft side offers immediate views of the Northern Limestone Alps as the aircraft climbs southeastward from Salzburg. The Salzach River valley and the city itself are visible briefly, but the alpine ridge dominates the scenic window during the initial climb phase.
Landing at LGW
RIGHTRight side provides the best views during descent into Gatwick. As the aircraft approaches from the southeast, the right window frames the North Downs, the Weald, and the approach corridor over Surrey and West Sussex. The Thames valley and London's urban sprawl also become visible on the right side during the final descent phase.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Salzburg (SZG) to Gatwick (LGW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Salzburg to London. While the left side offers excellent alpine scenery on departure, the right side provides more sustained visual interest across the flight path—the English landscape during descent is more varied and extensive than the brief alpine views during Salzburg climb-out. Right seats capture both the Weald and North Downs approach sequence.
What can I see during takeoff from Salzburg in Salzburg?
During takeoff from Salzburg (SZG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers immediate views of the Northern Limestone Alps as the aircraft climbs southeastward from Salzburg. The Salzach River valley and the city itself are visible briefly, but the alpine ridge dominates the scenic window during the initial climb phase. Notable sights include: Northern Limestone Alps (Berchtesgaden Alps to the south), Salzach River valley, Salzburg city center, Untersberg massif.
What can I see when landing at Gatwick in London?
When landing at Gatwick (LGW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides the best views during descent into Gatwick. As the aircraft approaches from the southeast, the right window frames the North Downs, the Weald, and the approach corridor over Surrey and West Sussex. The Thames valley and London's urban sprawl also become visible on the right side during the final descent phase. Notable sights include: North Downs (chalk ridge), The Weald (forested lowlands), River Thames valley, London urban area to the north.
How long is the flight from Salzburg to London?
The flight from Salzburg (SZG) to Gatwick (LGW) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 635 miles (1,022 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Salzburg to London flight path pass over?
English Channel crossing (visible as a blue-grey band separating France from England), Normandy and Sussex coastlines, the Weald of southeastern England, Thames estuary and Greater London metropolitan area on approach