Loading map...
BHX → LYS
Which side of the plane to sit from Birmingham International Airport (Birmingham) to Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (Lyon)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is typically superior for this route as it offers the best perspective of the Paris skyline and the majestic peaks of the French Alps on the horizon during the final descent into Lyon.
Search flights from BHX to LYS
London Horizon
Distant views of the Greater London area and the Thames Estuary shortly after departure.
English Channel
A clear view of the busy shipping lanes and the transition from the UK coast to northern France.
Parisian Landmarks
On many flight paths, the Eiffel Tower and the urban sprawl of Paris are visible to the east.
Burgundy Vineyards
Aerial patterns of the world-famous vineyards in the Côte d'Or region as you head south.
The French Alps
Stunning views of the distant snow-capped Alpine range, including Mont Blanc on clear days.
Choose the left side for morning flights to have the sun behind you, providing better visibility of France. Keep your camera ready about 30-40 minutes into the flight for potential views of the Paris city center. During the descent, look far ahead to the left to see the high Alps before the plane turns for its final approach.
Get eSIMs for United Kingdom
Get eSIMs for France
The Cotswolds
Rolling green hills and honey-colored stone villages of the English countryside after takeoff.
Normandy Coast
The dramatic coastline of northern France, featuring limestone cliffs and historic beaches.
Loire Valley
Glimpses of the winding Loire River and the dense forests of central France.
Massif Central
The ancient volcanic peaks and rugged terrain of the Auvergne region visible to the west.
Lyon Suburbs
A detailed view of the Rhone valley and the outskirts of Lyon during the landing pattern.
The right side is perfect for sunset flights, as you'll see the sun dip below the horizon over the French interior. Watch for the unique 'Puy' volcanic domes as you enter the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Use a polarized lens if shooting photos to cut through the haze often found over central France.
Book Hotels in LyonDistance: 897 km (557 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 30 min
Departure: BHX (52.4538993835, -1.7480299472799998)
Arrival: LYS (45.725556, 5.081111)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.