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CLT → FRA
Which side of the plane to sit from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Charlotte) to Frankfurt am Main Airport (Frankfurt)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior vantage point for viewing the dense metropolitan corridors of the U.S. East Coast, the rugged coastlines of Newfoundland, and a high probability of witnessing the Northern Lights during the overnight Atlantic crossing.
Northeast Corridor
Aerial views of the urban sprawl from Washington D.C. up to Boston and the distinct hook of Cape Cod.
Newfoundland Coast
Dramatic rocky shorelines and, during late spring, potential sightings of icebergs drifting in the North Atlantic.
Aurora Borealis
On this northern track during winter months, the left side faces north, offering the best chance to see the Northern Lights.
Irish Landfall
The first glimpse of Europe often features the emerald green fields and rugged cliffs of Western Ireland.
Frankfurt Skyline
During standard westerly approaches to FRA, the left side provides views of the 'Mainhattan' skyscrapers.
Select a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. For the best Aurora sightings, choose a flight departing after 6:00 PM in winter and keep your eyes peeled 3-5 hours into the flight. If the plane lands towards the west, the left side usually gets the iconic view of the Frankfurt financial district.
Chesapeake Bay
Early in the flight, view the vast estuary and the bridge-tunnels connecting Virginia's coast.
Transatlantic Sunrise
As an eastbound overnight flight, the right side enjoys a spectacular, early sunrise over the Atlantic horizon.
English Channel
Views of one of the world's busiest shipping lanes and the distant coastline of Northern France.
Rhine River
As you enter German airspace, look for the winding Rhine River and its historic riverside towns.
Taunus Mountains
Beautiful views of the forested hills and rolling landscapes of the Hesse region before landing.
This side is ideal for passengers who enjoy watching the sunrise, which occurs very quickly on eastbound routes. Be prepared for intense glare about 6 hours into the flight. On descent, the right side often looks down over the Frankfurt Airport cargo facilities and the extensive forest surrounding the airfield.
Distance: 7,059 km (4,386 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 18 min
Departure: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)
Arrival: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)
Route Type: International
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