Loading map...
IAH โ CDG
Which side of the plane to sit from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston) to Charles de Gaulle International Airport (Paris)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the highest probability of spotting the spectacular Greenland icecap on northern tracks and provides a better vantage point for the historic Normandy coastline during the descent into Paris.
Appalachian Mountains
Aerial views of the ancient, folded mountain ridges of Pennsylvania and New York state shortly after departure.
Newfoundland Coastline
The rugged, rocky shores and deep fjords of eastern Canada as the flight begins its oceanic crossing.
Greenland Icecap
On more northerly routes, you can see the distant, glowing white peaks and glaciers of southern Greenland.
Irish Coastline
The first glimpse of Europe often features the lush green cliffs and rolling hills of southern Ireland.
Normandy Beaches
Historic coastline of northern France, including the D-Day landing sites, visible during the final descent phase.
The left side is best for night flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sunrise on the right. About 5 to 6 hours into the flight, look north for a chance to see the Aurora Borealis during winter months. As you approach CDG, keep your window shade up to catch the transition from the Atlantic to the rural French countryside.
Houston Skyline
Excellent views of downtown Houston and the sprawling Ship Channel immediately after takeoff from IAH.
US East Coast Lights
The dense, sparkling light patterns of the Northeast Megalopolis, including New York and Boston, on clear nights.
Atlantic Sunrise
A front-row seat to the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean, typically occurring 2-3 hours before landing.
Brittany Peninsula
The westernmost tip of France, featuring dramatic rocky outcroppings and turquoise coastal waters.
Paris Suburbs
Views of the dense urban layout and historical architecture of the greater รle-de-France region on arrival.
Select the right side if you enjoy watching the sunrise, but be prepared for high-intensity light that can make sleeping difficult. On the initial climb, this side usually offers the best view of the Texas landscape. During the arrival into CDG, depending on the wind direction, you may catch a distant glimpse of the Eiffel Tower if the plane approaches from the south.
Distance: 8,071 km (5,015 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 30 min
Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Arrival: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.