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HER → LYS
Which side of the plane to sit from Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (Heraklion) to Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (Lyon)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most dramatic variety of scenery, including the rugged interior of Corsica, the central Italian mountains, and a spectacular approach over the French Alps towards the Rhone Valley.
Apennine Mountains
The jagged limestone peaks of Italy's central mountain range visible during the trans-peninsular crossing.
Northern Corsica
Dramatic views of Cap Corse and the high granite peaks of the island's mountainous interior.
French Alps
Breathtaking vistas of the southern French Alps, including snow-capped peaks during the descent into Lyon.
Rhone Valley Vineyards
The rolling hills and world-famous vineyards of the northern Rhone region as the plane aligns for landing.
Lyon Cityscape
Views of the confluence of the Saone and Rhone rivers and the historic Fourviere hill on the final approach.
The right side is essential for mountain lovers. You will get an excellent view of Corsica and the Alps. For the best photography, choose a seat in the front third of the cabin to avoid engine heat haze obscuring the mountain peaks. Morning flights provide the best illumination for the Alps.
Crete Coastline
Aerial views of the Heraklion shoreline and the Aegean Sea immediately after takeoff.
Mount Etna
On clear days, the massive silhouette of Sicily's active volcano is visible to the southwest across the Ionian Sea.
Calabrian Coast
The dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters of the 'toe' of Italy as the flight crosses the Mediterranean.
Camargue Delta
The unique salt marshes, lagoons, and wetlands of the Rhone delta near the Mediterranean coast.
Marseille and Coast
Panoramic views of the French coastline including the Calanques and the city of Marseille before turning north.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Greek and Italian coastlines early in the flight. This side is particularly scenic during sunset flights as the light reflects off the Mediterranean. Ensure you are seated away from the wing to catch the distant view of Sicily's volcanoes.
Distance: 2,045 km (1,271 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 44 min
Departure: HER (35.3396987915, 25.1802997589)
Arrival: LYS (45.725556, 5.081111)
Route Type: International
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