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JNB → CDG
Which side of the plane to sit from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Charles de Gaulle International Airport (Paris)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior for this northbound overnight route, offering a spectacular sunrise over the Mediterranean Sea and prime views of the Alps and Paris during the morning arrival.
Okavango Delta
The world's largest inland delta in Botswana may be visible on the eastern horizon during the initial hours of flight.
Tibesti Mountains
Dramatic volcanic spires in northern Chad that provide a stark contrast to the surrounding Saharan sands.
Mediterranean Dawn
A breathtaking sunrise over the sea as the flight transitions from the African continent to European airspace.
The Alps
Depending on the specific airway, the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss and French Alps are often visible to the East.
Paris Approach
Excellent views of the northern suburbs and, depending on the wind direction, the Eiffel Tower during the final turns for CDG.
Since this is typically an 11-hour overnight flight, choose the Right Side (usually 'K' or 'L' seats) to catch the sunrise. Use a flight tracker to see if your path crosses the Tibesti Mountains, as they are a geologic wonder. For the best arrival views, look out roughly 20 minutes before landing as the plane maneuvers through the Paris TMA.
Kalahari Basin
The red sands of the Kalahari are visible shortly after takeoff from Johannesburg during the early evening light.
Congo Basin
The vast, dark expanse of the world's second-largest rainforest, occasionally illuminated by tropical lightning storms.
Grand Erg Occidental
Stunning views of the massive sand dune seas in the Western Sahara as the first light hits the desert floor.
Balearic Sea
Crossing the Mediterranean between Algeria and the Spanish coast, offering deep azure water views.
Massif Central
The rugged volcanic peaks and plateaus of south-central France during the descent into Paris.
The left side is ideal for passengers who prefer to avoid the direct glare of the morning sun. It offers better views of the Western Sahara's shifting dunes. If the flight path tracks further west, you may catch a glimpse of the Pyrenees mountains on the border of Spain and France.
Distance: 8,738 km (5,430 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 17 min
Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Arrival: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)
Route Type: International
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