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BIO destination photo
BRU destination photo

BIOBRU

Which side of the plane to sit from Bilbao Airport (Bilbao) to Brussels Airport (Brussels)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a diverse journey over French landmarks, including distant views of the Pyrenees, the famous vineyards of Bordeaux, the historic Loire Valley, and a high probability of seeing the Paris skyline before descending over the Belgian countryside.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Pyrenees Range

Shortly after takeoff, look south-east to see the jagged, often snow-capped peaks of the Pyrenees border between Spain and France.

🍷

Bordeaux Vineyards

Fly over the meticulously organized rows of some of the world's most famous wineries in the Gironde department.

👑

Loire Valley Châteaux

Identify the winding Loire River and spot the grand estates and castles that dot the landscape near Tours and Orléans.

🗼

Paris Skyline

Depending on the flight path (typically airway V24), the Eiffel Tower and the urban sprawl of the French capital are often visible.

🦁

Lion of Waterloo

During the final descent into BRU, look for the massive conical mound and bronze lion marking the site of the 1815 battlefield.

The right side is generally more scenic for inland landmarks. Aim for morning flights to have the sun behind you, illuminating the French countryside. Keep your camera ready about 45-50 minutes into the flight for the best chance to spot Paris and its landmarks.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Bay of Biscay

Dramatic views of the rugged Cantabrian coastline and the deep blue waters of the Atlantic upon departure from Bilbao.

🏝️

Charente Islands

Clear aerial perspectives of Île d'Oléron and Île de Ré, characterized by their white sandy beaches and salt pans.

⚓

Loire Estuary

The massive bridge at Saint-Nazaire and the industrial beauty of the Loire River meeting the sea.

🏰

Mont Saint-Michel

On very clear days and westerly flight paths, the silhouette of this iconic abbey may be visible on the horizon.

⚛️

The Atomium

As the plane circles for its approach to Brussels Airport, the left side often catches a glimpse of this silver landmark.

Sit here if you enjoy coastal scenery and maritime landscapes. For evening flights, this side provides spectacular sunset views over the Atlantic Ocean. The transition from the green mountains of the Basque Country to the flat French coast is a highlight.

Top Activities in Brussels
Route Information

Distance: 1,013 km (629 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min

Departure: BIO (43.30110168457031, -2.9106099605560303)

Arrival: BRU (50.9014015198, 4.48443984985)

Route Type: International

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