Loading map...
BIO → GVA
Which side of the plane to sit from Bilbao Airport (Bilbao) to Geneva Cointrin International Airport (Geneva)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the most iconic landmarks of the route, including a long-distance panorama of the Pyrenees and a spectacular, close-up view of the French Alps and Mont Blanc during the descent into Geneva.
Pyrenees Panorama
A continuous view of the snow-capped mountain range to the south, marking the border between Spain and France.
Toulouse & Airbus HQ
Spotting the 'Pink City' and the massive hangars of the Airbus manufacturing plant from cruising altitude.
The French Alps
A breathtaking approach to Geneva that brings the massive, jagged peaks of the Alps into clear view.
Mont Blanc
Western Europe's highest peak is often clearly visible to the southeast during the descent, appearing just above the clouds.
Lake Geneva & Jet d'Eau
On final approach, you can often see the famous water fountain and the picturesque lakefront of Geneva.
The right side is highly recommended for the Alpine views. For the best photography, aim for a flight in the early morning or late afternoon when the low sun casts shadows that emphasize the mountain topography. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing, as the proximity to Mont Blanc is the highlight of this flight route.
Basque Coastline
Dramatic views of the rugged Atlantic cliffs and the deep blue Bay of Biscay immediately after departure from Bilbao.
Bordeaux Vineyards
The geometric patterns of world-famous vineyards across the Aquitaine basin in southwest France.
Massif Central
The ancient volcanic plateaus and green peaks of central France, providing a unique geological landscape.
Jura Mountains
Dense evergreen forests and limestone ridges that form the natural border between France and Switzerland.
The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the glare of the southern sun. It offers the best views of the shoreline during the initial climb out of Bilbao. On many arrival patterns into Geneva, the left side provides an excellent look at the northern shores of Lake Geneva (Lac Leman) and the city of Lausanne in the distance.
Distance: 783 km (487 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 18 min
Departure: BIO (43.30110168457031, -2.9106099605560303)
Arrival: GVA (46.23809814453125, 6.108950138092041)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.