There are countless marvels across the globe, but one European metropolis is arguably amongst the most stunning. With a workplace 41,000 feet above sea level and constantly shifting time zones, pilots have the opportunity to witness parts of the world that few others experience. They observe the intricate details of cities through their expansive cockpit windows, stretches of shoreline with unparalleled clarity, and airports nestled within thriving urban centres and challenging landscapes.
Pilot's Perspective on Aerial Views
"There are parts of the earth that we look down on that no one has ever walked on - it's really cool," Wizz Air pilot Tom Copestake exclusively told the Mirror. "The way it makes you feel really small, but insignificant somehow. Looking down at this expanse of snow and mountains or sand and desert, but it's the most exhilarating feeling, I love it."
Barcelona: The Most Spectacular Approach
However, there's one location that Tom described as offering the most breathtaking approach. "Barcelona is a beautiful place to land. We approach from the UK, the north, so we fly over the mountains, over the ocean and then swing round to the right, and there's the city," he explained. "You can see the Sagrada Família and the cathedral, and you've got this big expanse of an airport - it's really cool."
In the past four years as a Wizz Air pilot, Tom has transported thousands of travellers across more than 750 flights and explored over 50 nations. Yet there are two additional airports he's eager to arrive at. "I'm really excited about landing in Yerevan, Armenia. It's a new destination for us [Wizz Air], but it's surrounded by big mountains, and it'll be an interesting experience to fly around there."
New Routes and Exciting Destinations
From June 12 this year, Wizz Air will introduce direct services from London Luton Airport to Yerevan for the first time, operating twice weekly with one-way tickets starting at £36.99. The pilot added: "We also have some new Greek islands we're launching, and I'm really excited about flying to Mykonos, Greece. We'll be over the sea, and then suddenly there's a little island to land on. It'll be really fun."
The low-cost carrier has strengthened its Greek network with extra UK departures to Chania, Corfu, Mykonos, Rhodes, Santorini, and Zakynthos, with Mykonos fares beginning at approximately £42.24 one-way.
Personal Favourites and Underrated Gems
When asked about his personal holiday favourite, he told the Mirror: "My favourite destination is Split in Croatia, I absolutely adore it. It has a mix of Mediterranean vibes, old architecture and castles, which is really cool." However, Tom highlighted one underrated European spot that travellers often overlook but shouldn't miss. "I flew into Bilbao about two weeks ago - it's a tremendous destination on the north coast. It was surrounded by what looked like amazing mountains or hills for hiking. I think there's a lot of good walking in northern Spain," Tom shared.
"I spoke to the ground handling agent in Bilbao, and he said how beautiful the area was and how we needed to stay and go exploring. There's a place called San Sebastián just down the road from Bilbao, which is apparently an amazing place to go and have a look at."
