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LYS → CDG
Which side of the plane to sit from Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (Lyon) to Charles de Gaulle International Airport (Paris)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the rolling French countryside and, most importantly, provides the best chance of spotting the Paris city skyline, including the Eiffel Tower, during the standard approach into CDG.
Beaujolais Vineyards
Lush rolling hills and famous wine estates visible shortly after departure from Lyon.
Morvan Regional Park
A vast expanse of dense forests and granite massifs in the heart of Burgundy.
The Seine River
The iconic river as it snakes through the Ile-de-France region toward the capital.
Paris Skyline
On clear days and standard landing patterns, you can see the Eiffel Tower, Montparnasse, and the La Défense district.
Stade de France
The massive national stadium located in Saint-Denis just before touchdown at CDG.
Sit on the left for the iconic Paris views. Morning flights offer the best lighting as the sun is in the east. During the descent, look for the 'Loop' around Paris; if the plane approaches from the south, the city center will appear prominently out of the left window. Keep your camera ready as you cross the A86 ring road.
Jura Mountains
Distant views of the Jura range and the Swiss border to the far east.
Dijon & Burgundy
The historic capital of the Dukes of Burgundy and the surrounding mustard-producing plains.
Champagne Region
The southern edges of the famous wine-growing region characterized by neat rows of vines.
Disneyland Paris
The distinctive Sleeping Beauty Castle and the resort's theme park layout near Marne-la-Vallée.
CDG Infrastructure
A full view of the expansive terminal 1 and 2 complexes during final taxiing.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to avoid the direct western glare. It provides a unique view of Disneyland Paris (Marne-la-Vallée) during the final approach path from the east. In winter, look for the snow-capped Jura mountains on the horizon shortly after reaching cruising altitude.
Distance: 412 km (256 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 41 min
Departure: LYS (45.725556, 5.081111)
Arrival: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)
Route Type: Domestic
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