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CDG → GYD
Which side of the plane to sit from Charles de Gaulle International Airport (Paris) to Heydar Aliyev International Airport (Baku)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the Greater Caucasus range, providing spectacular views of Europe's highest peaks during the final leg into Baku.
Parisian Outskirts
Aerial views of the French capital's northern suburbs and the lush Oise region during initial climb.
Bavarian Valleys
The green landscapes and winding rivers of Southern Germany and the Danube basin.
Carpathian Mountains
The dramatic, jagged ridges of the Transylvanian Alps in Romania.
Black Sea Crossing
A vast expanse of deep blue water as the flight exits European airspace.
The Greater Caucasus
The star attraction featuring the massive, snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus range, including Mount Elbrus.
Absheron Peninsula
The distinctive hook-shaped coastline of Azerbaijan as the plane prepares for landing at GYD.
Sit on the left for the most dramatic mountain scenery. Since the flight travels East, the left side faces North, which provides indirect, soft lighting ideal for photography without sun glare. The best views occur roughly 45-60 minutes before landing when the plane parallels the Greater Caucasus range. Ensure you have your camera ready as you cross from the Black Sea onto the Georgian/Azerbaijani landmass.
Distant Alps
On clear days, the white peaks of the Swiss and Austrian Alps are visible on the southern horizon.
Lake Balaton
The striking turquoise waters of Hungary's massive inland lake.
Anatolian Coast
Views of the rugged northern coastline of Turkey and the Pontic Mountains.
Lesser Caucasus
The rolling, ancient volcanic plateaus of southern Georgia and Armenia.
Kura-Aras Lowland
The unique, semi-arid steppe landscapes of central Azerbaijan during the descent.
The right side faces South, meaning you will likely encounter direct sunlight for the duration of the flight; keep your window shade partially closed to manage heat. This side is better for spotting the distant silhouette of the Alps and the Anatolian coastline. During the final descent, look for the unique oil rigs and industrial heritage of the Caspian coast south of Baku.
Distance: 3,803 km (2,363 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 28 min
Departure: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)
Arrival: GYD (40.46749877929688, 50.04669952392578)
Route Type: International
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