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LAX â CDG
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to Charles de Gaulle International Airport (Paris)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers unparalleled views of the Greenland ice cap and provides the best opportunity to witness the Aurora Borealis during the overnight portion of the flight.
Greenland Ice Sheet
Dramatic views of massive glaciers, jagged fjords, and the vast white expanse of the Arctic ice cap.
Aurora Borealis
High probability of seeing the Northern Lights during the dark hours over the North Atlantic tracks.
Canadian Shield
The rugged, lake-filled wilderness of northern Quebec and Labrador during the early cruise phase.
Scottish Highlands
On northerly routes, you can see the emerald green mountains and lochs of northern Scotland.
Arctic Icebergs
Look down to spot massive icebergs floating in the Labrador Sea near the Greenland coast.
For the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis, choose a seat behind the wing to reduce engine glare and keep your window covered to let your eyes adjust to the darkness. Greenland is usually visible midway through the flight, so check the flight map frequently to time your viewing.
Mojave Desert
Striking aerial views of the California and Nevada desert landscapes shortly after departure.
Rocky Mountains
Spectacular snow-capped peaks as the flight crosses the spine of the American continent.
East Coast Glow
The distant light pollution of major US megalopolises like Boston or New York before the ocean crossing.
English Channel
The busy maritime traffic and the white cliffs of the French coastline as you enter European airspace.
Paris Approach
A view of the French countryside and the sprawling suburbs of the Ile-de-France region on descent.
The right side is excellent for the initial climb out of LAX and the final descent into Paris. Depending on the wind direction at CDG, a right-side seat may offer a distant view of the Eiffel Tower if the aircraft approaches from the north or performs a circling pattern.
Distance: 9,103 km (5,656 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 43 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)
Route Type: International
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