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CGN β ALC
Which side of the plane to sit from Cologne Bonn Airport (Cologne) to Alicante International Airport (Alicante)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior visual sequence, transitioning from the lush forests of the Eifel to the rugged Massif Central, and concluding with a magnificent panoramic sweep along the Mediterranean coastline and the Costa Blanca.
Eifel National Park
Visible shortly after departure from CGN, featuring dense beech forests and volcanic maars.
Massif Central
Observe the ancient volcanic landscape and deep gorges of south-central France.
Catalan Coastline
As the flight crosses into Spain, enjoy views of the Mediterranean sea and the urban sprawl of Barcelona.
Costa Blanca
Stunning vistas of the white-sand beaches and turquoise waters during the final descent into Alicante.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you or to the side, reducing glare. This side is particularly rewarding for spotting the transition from the green European interior to the arid, bright Spanish coast. Keep an eye out approximately 15 minutes before landing for the salt flats of Santa Pola.
Pyrenees Mountains
A dramatic crossing over the high-altitude peaks and glacial valleys marking the French-Spanish border.
Ebro River Basin
See the winding path of the Ebro river as it carves through the rugged terrain of Aragon.
Spanish Meseta
The high plateau offers a stark, beautiful contrast with its red earth and vast agricultural patterns.
Santa BΓ‘rbara Castle
Depending on the landing pattern, you may see the historic fortress perched atop Mount Benacantil.
The right side is best for late afternoon flights to avoid the direct Mediterranean sun. The Pyrenees crossing is the highlight here, occurring roughly midway through the journey. If the plane lands on Runway 28, you will get an excellent view of the Alicante city center and its historic castle.
Distance: 1,524 km (947 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 2 min
Departure: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)
Arrival: ALC (38.28219985961914, -0.5581560134887695)
Route Type: International
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