While takeoff offers dramatic volcanic scenery, the landing approach into Heathrow provides more varied and extensive views of populated geography, river systems, and the English countryside—features that remain visible for longer during descent.
Flown TFS to LHR? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Tenerife to London is 1,822 miles (2,932 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Bay of Biscay (open Atlantic, largely featureless), then enters European airspace over northern Spain or southwestern France. The Pyrenees may be visible as a distant ridge on the horizon if flying near the France-Spain border. The flight then crosses central France, with the Loire Valley and its river systems potentially visible, before crossing the English Channel and approaching southern England. The Cotswolds and Thames Valley become prominent features during the final descent into London.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from TFS
RIGHTRight-side seats offer immediate views of Tenerife's dramatic volcanic landscape as the aircraft climbs northwestward. You'll see the island's interior peaks and the Atlantic coastline receding below.
Landing at LHR
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the approach to Heathrow from the southwest. You'll see the Thames River, London's urban sprawl, and the distinctive geography of the Home Counties as you descend.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Tenerife Sur (TFS) to Heathrow (LHR)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Tenerife to London. While takeoff offers dramatic volcanic scenery, the landing approach into Heathrow provides more varied and extensive views of populated geography, river systems, and the English countryside—features that remain visible for longer during descent.
What can I see during takeoff from Tenerife Sur in Tenerife?
During takeoff from Tenerife Sur (TFS), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer immediate views of Tenerife's dramatic volcanic landscape as the aircraft climbs northwestward. You'll see the island's interior peaks and the Atlantic coastline receding below. Notable sights include: Mount Teide (3,718 m, visible as a distant peak inland), Tenerife's southern coastal cliffs, the Atlantic Ocean extending northward, smaller volcanic cones across the island's interior.
What can I see when landing at Heathrow in London?
When landing at Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the approach to Heathrow from the southwest. You'll see the Thames River, London's urban sprawl, and the distinctive geography of the Home Counties as you descend. Notable sights include: The Thames River (winding through London and visible as a silvery line), Greater London's urban grid and parks, the Chiltern Hills to the northwest, Windsor area and surrounding countryside.
How long is the flight from Tenerife to London?
The flight from Tenerife Sur (TFS) to Heathrow (LHR) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,822 miles (2,932 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Tenerife to London flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Bay of Biscay (open Atlantic, largely featureless), then enters European airspace over northern Spain or southwestern France. The Pyrenees may be visible as a distant ridge on the horizon if flying near the France-Spain border. The flight then crosses central France, with the Loire Valley and its river systems potentially visible, before crossing the English Channel and approaching southern England. The Cotswolds and Thames Valley become prominent features during the final descent into London.