The outbound views from Taipei are more dramatic and geographically distinctive—the Taiwan Strait, Central Mountain Range, and coastal topography provide stronger visual interest than the landing approach. The flight path itself over Central Asia offers limited ground visibility due to altitude and terrain monotony.
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Flight Path
Taipei to London is 6,061 miles (9,753 km), a flight of about 13 hours 30 minutes.
This route typically routes northwest over mainland China (Sichuan Basin visible as haze-obscured terrain), then crosses the Tibetan Plateau (high altitude, sparse visibility), the Hindu Kush and Pamir Mountains (visible as distant ridges if clear), Central Asian deserts (Taklamakan, Kyzyl Kum—featureless from cruise altitude), the Caspian Sea (if routed south), and eventually the Caucasus Mountains before heading toward Europe. Most midpoint flying occurs at 35,000+ feet where ground detail is minimal. The Alps become visible on approach to European airspace, appearing as a jagged white line on the horizon during descent into the UK.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from TPE
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the northbound departure over the Taiwan Strait and the dramatic eastern coast of Taiwan, including the Central Mountain Range rising steeply from sea level. The left side faces inland toward the Taipei basin.
Landing at LCY
LEFTLeft-side seats offer the best views during the standard eastbound approach to London City Airport. You'll see the Thames meanders through central London, the City financial district, and the approach path over the Docklands and Isle of Dogs before touchdown.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE) to City (LCY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Taipei to London. The outbound views from Taipei are more dramatic and geographically distinctive—the Taiwan Strait, Central Mountain Range, and coastal topography provide stronger visual interest than the landing approach. The flight path itself over Central Asia offers limited ground visibility due to altitude and terrain monotony.
What can I see during takeoff from Chiang Kai Shek International in Taipei?
During takeoff from Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the northbound departure over the Taiwan Strait and the dramatic eastern coast of Taiwan, including the Central Mountain Range rising steeply from sea level. The left side faces inland toward the Taipei basin. Notable sights include: Central Mountain Range (Xueshan and Yushan peaks visible as distant ridges), Taiwan Strait (body of water separating Taiwan from mainland China), Taipei basin and urban sprawl, Keelung harbor and northeastern coastal cliffs.
What can I see when landing at City in London?
When landing at City (LCY), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer the best views during the standard eastbound approach to London City Airport. You'll see the Thames meanders through central London, the City financial district, and the approach path over the Docklands and Isle of Dogs before touchdown. Notable sights include: River Thames (distinctive meanders through London), Isle of Dogs (peninsula in the Thames), Canary Wharf and Docklands skyline, City of London and Tower Bridge area.
How long is the flight from Taipei to London?
The flight from Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE) to City (LCY) takes about 13 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 6,061 miles (9,753 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Taipei to London flight path pass over?
This route typically routes northwest over mainland China (Sichuan Basin visible as haze-obscured terrain), then crosses the Tibetan Plateau (high altitude, sparse visibility), the Hindu Kush and Pamir Mountains (visible as distant ridges if clear), Central Asian deserts (Taklamakan, Kyzyl Kum—featureless from cruise altitude), the Caspian Sea (if routed south), and eventually the Caucasus Mountains before heading toward Europe. Most midpoint flying occurs at 35,000+ feet where ground detail is minimal. The Alps become visible on approach to European airspace, appearing as a jagged white line on the horizon during descent into the UK.