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CPT → FRA
Which side of the plane to sit from Cape Town International Airport (Cape Town) to Frankfurt am Main Airport (Frankfurt)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer incredible views of the Cape Peninsula upon departure, the Right Side wins for the spectacular sunrise over the snow-capped Alps and the view of the Frankfurt skyline during the final approach.
Table Mountain
Unrivaled views of the iconic flat-topped mountain and the City Bowl as the plane climbs and turns north.
Sahara Stargazing
Minimal light pollution over central Africa provides an incredible view of the Milky Way during the middle of the night.
The Swiss Alps
A breathtaking highlight at dawn; watch the first light of day hit the jagged, snow-covered peaks of Central Europe.
Frankfurt Skyline
Known as 'Mainhattan', the cluster of skyscrapers is often visible on the right during the final approach pattern.
Hottentots Holland Mountains
Rugged mountain ranges of the Western Cape visible shortly after departure toward the east.
The right side is essential for the 'Alps at sunrise' experience, which occurs roughly 60-90 minutes before landing. Ensure your window is clear of condensation. For the best view of Table Mountain at departure, be aware that flight paths vary by wind; however, a right-side seat typically captures the mountain range as the aircraft banks north towards Namibia.
Robben Island
A clear view of the historic island and the Atlantic seaboard immediately after takeoff from CPT.
Skeleton Coast
Stunning vistas where the massive orange dunes of the Namib Desert meet the cold Atlantic waves.
Atlantic Sunset
On evening departures, the left side enjoys a prolonged, vibrant sunset over the open ocean horizon.
Balearic Islands
Bird's-eye views of Mallorca and Ibiza during the crossing of the Western Mediterranean.
Rhine Valley
Green vineyard-covered hills and winding river bends as the flight descends into Germany.
Sit on the left if you want to capture the iconic shot of Robben Island and the Western Cape coastline during the first 20 minutes of flight. Since most flights on this route are overnight, the left side is also better for avoiding direct sunlight during the early morning descent into Frankfurt, allowing for better photography of the German countryside.
Distance: 9,392 km (5,836 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 11 hrs 3 min
Departure: CPT (-33.9648017883, 18.6016998291)
Arrival: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)
Route Type: International
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