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CDG â ABZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Charles de Gaulle International Airport (Paris) to Aberdeen Dyce Airport (Aberdeen)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior vantage point for the iconic transition from the French plains to the dramatic cliffs and rolling hills of the British eastern coastline.
Paris Northern Suburbs
Aerial views of the dense urban sprawl of Saint-Denis and the northern reaches of the Paris metropolitan area immediately after takeoff.
Picardy Plains
The geometric patchwork of northern French farmland, featuring the historic Somme river valley and World War I battlefields.
The English Channel
Crossing the narrowest part of the Channel, often providing views of the white chalk cliffs near Dover if the visibility is clear.
Humber Estuary
A clear view of the massive Humber Bridge and the industrial landscape of Hull as you cross into Northern England.
Yorkshire Coastline
Stunning vistas of the rugged North York Moors meeting the North Sea, including the red-roofed town of Whitby.
Firth of Forth
Approaching Scotland, look for the iconic Forth Bridges and the distant skyline of Edinburgh to the southwest.
St Andrews
The world-famous Old Course and the historic university town are clearly visible along the Fife coast.
Dunnottar Castle
Just before the final descent into ABZ, the dramatic medieval ruins perched on a clifftop near Stonehaven are a highlight.
Book an 'A' or 'B' seat. On morning flights, the sun will be behind you, illuminating the UK coastline perfectly. During the descent, keep your camera ready for the Scottish coastline which is significantly more rugged than the French start of the journey. If the flight path takes you over the Fens, the intricate drainage canals of East Anglia create unique patterns on the ground.
The Opal Coast
The sandy beaches and seaside resorts of the French northern coast between Le Touquet and Calais.
Strait of Dover Shipping
Observe one of the world's busiest maritime lanes with dozens of cargo ships and ferries crisscrossing the water.
Offshore Wind Farms
Vast arrays of white turbines, such as the London Array or Hornsea projects, rising from the North Sea.
The North Sea Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the deep blue North Sea, often featuring dramatic cloud formations and offshore oil rigs as you head north.
Tay Estuary
The broad mouth of the River Tay where it meets the sea, marking the final stage of the journey into the Highlands region.
Right-side passengers (seats 'E' or 'F') will enjoy spectacular sunrises over the North Sea on early morning departures. While there is more open water on this side, it is the best side for spotting North Sea oil and gas infrastructure as you approach Aberdeen, the 'Oil Capital of Europe'. In winter, watch for the low northern sun casting long shadows over the water.
Distance: 964 km (599 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min
Departure: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)
Arrival: ABZ (57.20190048217773, -2.1977798938751216)
Route Type: International
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