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GVA → BIO
Which side of the plane to sit from Geneva Cointrin International Airport (Geneva) to Bilbao Airport (Bilbao)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for viewing the high peaks of the Pyrenees and the distant Swiss and French Alps shortly after takeoff.
Mont Blanc Massif
Clear views of Europe's highest peak in the distance shortly after departing Geneva.
Cévennes Mountains
The rugged, southern edge of the Massif Central featuring deep valleys and ancient rock formations.
The Pyrenees
A breathtaking panoramic view of the snow-capped border between France and Spain during the cruise phase.
San Sebastián
The famous shell-shaped La Concha Bay is often visible as the plane begins its descent into the Basque Country.
Mount Artxanda
The lush green ridges surrounding Bilbao provide a dramatic backdrop during the final approach.
For the most dramatic mountain views, choose a window seat on the left. During morning flights, the lighting on the Pyrenees is soft and ideal for photography. In winter, the contrast of the snow against the valley floors is particularly striking. Ensure you are looking out within the first 10 minutes for the Alps and the last 20 minutes for the Basque coastline.
Lake Geneva
An immediate aerial view of the crescent-shaped lake and the Jet d'Eau fountain if taking off to the west.
Jura Mountains
The dense forests and limestone ridges that form the border between Switzerland and France.
Bordeaux Vineyards
The vast, geometric patterns of the world-famous wine estates in the Aquitaine region.
Dune of Pilat
Europe's tallest sand dune visible as a bright gold strip along the silver Atlantic coast.
Bay of Biscay
The deep blue waters of the Atlantic meeting the rugged, cliff-lined northern coast of Spain.
The right side is ideal for coastal lovers. Keep your eyes peeled roughly 40-50 minutes into the flight for the Arcachon Basin and the Dune of Pilat. On afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, so bring sunglasses or a polarizing filter for your camera to handle the glare off the Atlantic Ocean.
Distance: 783 km (487 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 18 min
Departure: GVA (46.23809814453125, 6.108950138092041)
Arrival: BIO (43.30110168457031, -2.9106099605560303)
Route Type: International
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