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LAX → FRA
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to Frankfurt am Main Airport (Frankfurt)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side (Port) is superior for the Great Circle route, offering potential views of the Canadian wilderness, the Greenland ice sheet, and the rugged coastlines of Iceland and the UK.
Sierra Nevada Mountains
Dramatic views of the high peaks and glacial valleys of eastern California shortly after takeoff.
Great Salt Lake
The striking contrast of the turquoise and pink waters of Utah's massive saline lake.
Greenland Ice Sheet
A surreal landscape of massive glaciers, deep blue fjords, and floating icebergs in the North Atlantic.
Icelandic Coast
Volcanic black sand beaches and jagged cliffs visible if the flight path tracks slightly south.
Dutch Lowlands
The intricate network of canals, polders, and windmills of the Netherlands during the final descent.
The left side is the best choice for avoiding direct sun glare on this eastbound journey. On night flights, this side provides the best opportunity to witness the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) during the crossing of the North Atlantic and Greenland. Keep your window shade open as you cross 60-70 degrees north latitude.
Mojave Desert
The vast, arid expanse of the American Southwest with its unique geological formations.
The Rocky Mountains
Extensive views of the jagged, snow-capped peaks spanning through Colorado and Wyoming.
Chicago Skyline
Distant views of the Willis Tower and Lake Michigan if the route takes a more southerly mid-continental track.
Rhine River Valley
The winding Rhine river featuring historic castles and lush vineyards as you approach Frankfurt.
Frankfurt 'Mainhattan'
Excellent views of Germany's only major skyscraper cluster when landing from the east.
Expect significant sunlight for the first few hours of the flight, which can make it hot and bright. However, if the flight arrives at FRA during a westerly landing, the right side offers an iconic view of the Frankfurt financial district. Seasonal note: In winter, the right side catches the early sunrise over Europe.
Distance: 9,322 km (5,792 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 58 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)
Route Type: International
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