While takeoff offers good regional views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and varied scenery—the Thames River, London's urban geography, and the transition to the English countryside are visually compelling and iconic. Right-side seats capture these features effectively during descent.
Flown YOW to LGW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Ottawa to London is 3,342 miles (5,378 km), a flight of about 7 hours 15 minutes.
The flight crosses the Atlantic at high altitude (35,000+ feet), making mid-ocean views limited to open water. However, notable waypoints include: the Labrador coast and Newfoundland (if visible during early climb-out on a northerly routing), the Atlantic Ocean (featureless at cruise altitude), and the Irish coast or Celtic Sea (approaching European airspace). The final approach into Gatwick typically routes over southern England, offering views of the Weald, Kent's farmland, and the Sussex Downs before landing.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from YOW
LEFTLeft side offers views of the Ottawa River valley and the Gatineau Hills to the northwest as the aircraft climbs. The river's distinctive meanders and the forested ridge line are clearly visible during the initial climb-out phase.
Landing at LGW
RIGHTRight side provides views of the Thames River, London's urban sprawl, and the distinctive pattern of Greater London's development as the aircraft descends toward Gatwick. The river's path through the city and the contrast between urban and rural areas south of London are striking.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW) to Gatwick (LGW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Ottawa to London. While takeoff offers good regional views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and varied scenery—the Thames River, London's urban geography, and the transition to the English countryside are visually compelling and iconic. Right-side seats capture these features effectively during descent.
What can I see during takeoff from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International in Ottawa?
During takeoff from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the Ottawa River valley and the Gatineau Hills to the northwest as the aircraft climbs. The river's distinctive meanders and the forested ridge line are clearly visible during the initial climb-out phase. Notable sights include: Ottawa River (winding through the valley below), Gatineau Hills (forested ridge to the northwest), Canadian Shield terrain (rocky, tree-covered landscape), Rideau River (visible as a tributary joining from the south).
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 views of the Thames River, London's urban sprawl, and the distinctive pattern of Greater London's development as the aircraft descends toward Gatwick. The river's path through the city and the contrast between urban and rural areas south of London are striking. Notable sights include: Thames River (winding through central London), Greater London urban area (dense suburban development), North Downs (chalk hills visible south of the city), Surrey countryside (patchwork farmland and woodland south of London).
How long is the flight from Ottawa to London?
The flight from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW) to Gatwick (LGW) takes about 7 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 3,342 miles (5,378 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Ottawa to London flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Atlantic at high altitude (35,000+ feet), making mid-ocean views limited to open water. However, notable waypoints include: the Labrador coast and Newfoundland (if visible during early climb-out on a northerly routing), the Atlantic Ocean (featureless at cruise altitude), and the Irish coast or Celtic Sea (approaching European airspace). The final approach into Gatwick typically routes over southern England, offering views of the Weald, Kent's farmland, and the Sussex Downs before landing.