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BRU destination photo
ZRH destination photo

BRUZRH

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

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The Left Side is superior for this route because it offers a sweeping panorama of the Swiss Alps as you approach Zurich, along with views of Lake Constance and the dense canopy of the Black Forest.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🏰

Luxembourg City

Aerial view of the dramatic Alzette river valley and the historic fortifications of the city center.

🌲

Black Forest

The deep evergreen ridges of the Schwarzwald stretch across the German border towards Switzerland.

💧

Rhine River

The majestic river serves as the natural border between the French Alsace region and Germany.

🛶

Lake Constance

Also known as the Bodensee, this massive lake is often visible to the east during the descent phase.

🏔️

Swiss Alps Panorama

On clear days, the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Bernese and Glarus Alps dominate the southern horizon.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct afternoon sun glare. As the plane begins its descent into Zurich, keep your eyes on the horizon for the first glimpse of the high Alps. If the flight approaches via the east (Runway 28 or 34), the left side provides the best view of the Zurich lakefront and the city's iconic church spires.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🌳

The Ardennes

Rolling green hills and winding river valleys of southern Belgium shortly after takeoff.

🏔️

Vosges Mountains

The rounded peaks of the French Vosges range provide a rugged landscape to the west of the flight path.

⛰️

Jura Mountains

The distinctive limestone folds of the Jura range mark the entry into Swiss airspace.

🏙️

Zurich City Center

Depending on the wind-dependent landing pattern, views of the Limmat river and the banking district.

The right side is excellent for afternoon flights as the sun begins to set over the Jura mountains. During the final approach into Runway 14 (the most common landing strip), the right side offers a closer look at the rural Swiss plateau and the outskirts of the city. Watch for the traditional Swiss farmsteads dotted across the landscape just before touchdown.

Top Activities in Zurich
Route Information

Distance: 483 km (300 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 48 min

Departure: BRU (50.9014015198, 4.48443984985)

Arrival: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Route Type: International

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