About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Tampa International (TPA) to Heathrow (LHR)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Tampa to London. Left side wins at both ends of the flight. Over Tampa Bay on departure and over the Thames and London on approach, the left seat delivers the most geographically interesting views. Over the mid-Atlantic the difference is negligible, but the bookend views strongly favor the left.
What can I see during takeoff from Tampa International in Tampa?
During takeoff from Tampa International (TPA), sit on the Left side for the best views. TPA typically departs northeast on runway 19L/01R or uses runway 10/28. On a northeasterly departure toward the Atlantic, the left side gives you Tampa Bay spreading out to the south and southeast, with the Sunshine Skyway Bridge clearly visible as a distinctive cable-stayed span crossing the bay mouth. The downtown Tampa skyline also passes on the left during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Tampa Bay and its broad shallow waters, Sunshine Skyway Bridge spanning the bay mouth, downtown Tampa skyline, St. Petersburg peninsula across the bay.
What can I see when landing at Heathrow in London?
When landing at Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Heathrow predominantly lands on westerly headings (runways 27L/27R), meaning the approach comes in from the east over London. The left side on this approach gives you a clear view of central London — the Thames snaking through the city, the City of London, and landmarks along the river are all visible on the left as you descend over the eastern and central suburbs. Notable sights include: River Thames winding through central London, City of London financial district, Wembley Stadium arch visible to the north, Windsor Castle and Windsor Great Park just west of the airport.
How long is the flight from Tampa to London?
The flight from Tampa International (TPA) to Heathrow (LHR) takes Approximately 9 to 9.5 hours.
What does the Tampa to London flight path pass over?
The flight tracks northeast from Florida, crossing the Carolinas and Virginia coast before heading out over the North Atlantic. The route typically passes south of Newfoundland and crosses the North Atlantic, often routing near or south of Iceland depending on the jet stream. Greenland's southern ice sheet may be visible on the right side in clear conditions. The flight then crosses Ireland, with the Irish coastline and patchwork green fields visible before crossing the Irish Sea and entering England over Wales or the Midlands.