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AMS → ZRH
Which side of the plane to sit from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam) to Zürich Airport (Zurich)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer excellent views of the Rhine river valley, the Right Side is preferred for its superior perspective of the Vosges mountains and a more dramatic panoramic view of the Swiss Alps and Lake Zurich during the descent.
Dutch Rail Infrastructure
Clear views of the high-speed rail lines and modern urban planning around Utrecht.
The Vosges
The rugged, rounded peaks of the French Vosges mountain range appearing to the west.
Alsace Region
The picturesque border region between France and Germany, often visible through clear skies.
Swiss Alpine Chain
On the descent, the snow-capped Bernese Alps create a jagged white horizon to the south.
Lake Zurich
A stunning view of the long, curved lake and the city of Zurich during the final approach patterns.
The right side is unbeatable for the final 15 minutes of the flight. As the plane descends into ZRH, the Swiss Alps dominate the horizon. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting for photography of the peaks and Lake Zurich.
Dutch Polders
Intricate patterns of reclaimed land, canals, and greenhouses immediately after takeoff from Schiphol.
Middle Rhine
Views of the industrial Ruhr area and the winding Rhine river as it cuts through western Germany.
The Black Forest
Dense, dark evergreen canopies and rolling hills of the Schwarzwald region in Southwest Germany.
Lake Constance
Glimpses of the massive Bodensee on the horizon, where Germany, Austria, and Switzerland meet.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and enjoy the soft light hitting the German river valleys. Watch for the dense greenery of the Black Forest about 45 minutes into the flight.
Distance: 603 km (375 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr
Departure: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)
Arrival: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)
Route Type: International
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