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CDG → CMB
Which side of the plane to sit from Charles de Gaulle International Airport (Paris) to Bandaranaike International Colombo Airport (Colombo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic mountain vistas across Europe and the Middle East, along with a spectacular sunrise over the Indian Ocean during the typical overnight schedule of this route.
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The Swiss Alps
Stunning views of snow-capped peaks and glacial valleys roughly 1 hour after departure from Paris.
Zagros Mountains
Dramatic, folded rock formations and high-altitude plateaus while transiting over Iran.
Indian Ocean Sunrise
Vibrant colors as the sun rises over the horizon during the final 2 hours of the flight.
Central Highlands
Lush green tea plantations and misty mountains of inland Sri Lanka during the descent into Colombo.
On the typical evening departure from CDG, the left side avoids direct glare from the setting sun. Most of the flight is at night, but the dawn approach into Sri Lanka is the highlight; choose a window seat ahead of the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the central highlands. Look out for the Alps within the first 90 minutes of flight time.
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Greek Archipelago
Clusters of islands scattered across the deep blue Aegean Sea during the late evening.
Dubai Skyline
The twinkling lights of the Burj Khalifa and the Persian Gulf coastline during the night transit.
Indian West Coast
The silhouette of the Western Ghats and the coastline of Kerala as you cross from the Arabian Sea.
Negombo Coastline
Golden sandy beaches and palm-fringed lagoons just moments before landing at CMB.
If you enjoy night cityscapes, the right side is better for spotting major hubs along the Persian Gulf. During the final approach to Colombo, the right side frequently offers views of the Laccadive Sea and the coastal resorts of Negombo. Note that if the flight path takes a more southerly route, the heat haze over the Arabian desert may limit visibility during the early night hours.
Book Hotels in ColomboDistance: 8,483 km (5,271 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 59 min
Departure: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)
Arrival: CMB (7.180759906768799, 79.88410186767578)
Route Type: International
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