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CDG → SEA
Which side of the plane to sit from Charles de Gaulle International Airport (Paris) to Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic views of the Greenland ice cap, the jagged peaks of the Canadian Rockies, and the majestic Mount Baker during the final approach.
Paris Skyline
Aerial views of the northern Paris suburbs and potentially the Eiffel Tower depending on the takeoff departure corridor.
Southern Greenland
Stunning vistas of massive glaciers calving into deep blue fjords along the southern tip of the island.
Baffin Island
Dramatic Arctic landscapes featuring frozen sea ice, rugged cliffs, and remote tundra ecosystems.
The Canadian Rockies
High-altitude views of the snow-capped peaks near Jasper National Park and the British Columbia interior.
Mount Baker
A colossal glaciated volcano that marks the transition into Washington State airspace during descent.
On this westbound flight, the sun will be to the south (left side). While this provides excellent illumination for the terrain, be prepared for significant glare; a polarized filter is helpful for photography. The most spectacular views of Greenland occur roughly 4-5 hours after departure. During the final 30 minutes, watch for the Cascade Range peaks.
Northern Scotland
Vistas of the Scottish Highlands and the Outer Hebrides before the aircraft begins its Atlantic crossing.
Icelandic Coast
On more northerly routes, you can see the volcanic coastlines and Vatnajökull glacier in the distance.
Hudson Bay
The vast, often ice-chilled waters of northern Canada, providing a sense of the scale of the Arctic wilderness.
Olympic Peninsula
Lush green forests and the Olympic Mountains are often visible as the plane maneuvers for its final turn toward SEA.
The right side offers 'soft' lighting because it faces away from the sun, making it ideal for consistent, glare-free photography of the Arctic ice. If the flight takes place during the late autumn or winter months and experiences any darkness, this is the side to watch for the Aurora Borealis.
Distance: 8,049 km (5,001 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 28 min
Departure: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)
Arrival: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Route Type: International
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