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ICN destination photo
CDG destination photo

ICNCDG

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is generally superior for westward flights from Seoul to Paris because it faces north, avoiding the direct glare of the sun while offering soft, clear light for viewing the vast landscapes of Central Asia and the diverse geography of Eastern Europe.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏜️

Gobi Desert Fringe

The northern edges of the Gobi offer fascinating desert textures and desolate, beautiful landscapes over Mongolia and China.

🌾

Kazakh Steppe

The world's largest dry steppe region features endless horizons and unique agricultural patterns visible from cruising altitude.

💧

Aral Sea Remnants

Observe the striking and tragic ecological transformation of the receding Aral Sea basin with its salt flats.

🌊

Northern Caspian Sea

The shallow, turquoise waters of the northern Caspian offer beautiful swirling sediment patterns and coastal formations.

🏙️

Central European Plains

A dense mosaic of European cities, rivers like the Vistula or Elbe, and organized farmland as you approach France.

The right side offers consistent, indirect lighting which is perfect for photography without the interference of harsh shadows. The Aral Sea and Caspian Sea crossing are the geometric highlights—keep your eyes peeled roughly 7 to 9 hours after departure. Seasonal tip: In winter, the vast snow-covered landscapes of Kazakhstan are mesmerizing under the soft northern light.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Yellow Sea Coastline

Dramatic views of the Korean archipelago and tidal flats immediately after takeoff from Incheon.

🏔️

Tianshan Mountains

The 'Celestial Mountains' provide a stunning display of snow-capped peaks and high-altitude glaciers over Central Asia.

🏔️

The Caucasus Range

Home to Mount Elbrus, these rugged peaks offer some of the most dramatic mountain scenery on the entire route.

🏖️

Black Sea Coast

Deep blue water contrasts sharply with the green mountainous terrain of northern Turkey and the Balkans.

🏔️

The European Alps

Depending on the specific arrival path into Paris, the northern edge of the Alps may be visible in the distance.

While the views are majestic, the left side faces south, meaning you will deal with direct sunlight for the majority of the 14-hour flight. This can cause significant glare on the window and heat. If you choose this side, use polarized sunglasses for photography and be prepared to lower your shade periodically. The Caucasus Mountains usually appear around 9-10 hours into the flight.

Top Activities in Paris
Route Information

Distance: 8,927 km (5,547 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 30 min

Departure: ICN (37.46910095214844, 126.45099639892578)

Arrival: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)

Route Type: International

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