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BOD → LIL
Which side of the plane to sit from Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (Bordeaux) to Lille-Lesquin Airport (Lille)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft typically offers a superior view of the iconic Paris skyline, including a distant look at the Eiffel Tower, and provides better perspectives of the winding Loire River and the transition into the industrial north.
Saint-Émilion Slopes
Bird's-eye view of the historic limestone plateau and world-famous vineyards east of Bordeaux.
Loire River Meanders
A beautiful crossing of France's longest river, often near Tours or Orléans, showing sandbanks and islands.
Paris Skyline
The most sought-after view, featuring the Eiffel Tower, Montparnasse Tower, and the dense urban grid of the capital.
CDG Operations
Visuals of the massive Charles de Gaulle airport complex, one of Europe's busiest aviation hubs.
Mining Basin Peaks
The 'Terrils' (slag heaps) of the Nord-Pas-de-Calais, a UNESCO World Heritage site, appearing as dark pyramids near the descent.
The right side is essential for spotting Paris; keep your camera ready about 35-40 minutes into the flight. For evening flights, this side offers stunning golden hour lighting over the northern plains. Sit behind the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the Eiffel Tower.
Medoc Vineyards
Expansive views of the prestigious wine estates north of Bordeaux shortly after departure.
Atlantic Horizon
On clear days, the distant blue line of the Bay of Biscay is visible to the west.
Saumur and the Loire
Vistas of the western Loire Valley castles and the tuffeau stone architecture near the riverbanks.
Chartres Cathedral
The distinctive twin spires of this Gothic masterpiece can often be spotted rising from the Beauce plains.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. It is also the better side for capturing the geometric patterns of the vast agricultural fields in the 'granary of France' without harsh shadows.
Distance: 698 km (434 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 10 min
Departure: BOD (44.8283004761, -0.7155560255050001)
Arrival: LIL (50.563332, 3.086886)
Route Type: Domestic
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