Loading map...
LYS → FRA
Which side of the plane to sit from Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (Lyon) to Frankfurt am Main Airport (Frankfurt)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular vistas of the Jura Mountains and the distant snow-capped Swiss Alps, followed by a scenic traverse of the Black Forest and the Rhine Valley.
The High Alps
On clear days, the majestic peaks of the Swiss and French Alps dominate the southeastern horizon.
Jura Mountains
Fly directly over the rugged limestone ridges of the Jura range separating France and Switzerland.
The Black Forest
Extensive views of the dense, dark evergreen canopy and deep valleys of the Schwarzwald in Germany.
Rhine River Valley
Trace the path of the Upper Rhine, which serves as a natural border between the two countries.
Heidelberg Castle
Occasional views of the historic university city and its famous ruins depending on the specific flight corridor.
Frankfurt Skyline
A stunning view of 'Mainhattan' is often available during the descent into FRA, showcasing Germany's financial hub.
The right side is significantly more scenic. Opt for afternoon flights to have the sun behind you, illuminating the Alps and the Black Forest. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff for the Jura range and 15 minutes before landing for the Frankfurt skyline.
Saône River Valley
Aerial views of the winding Saône river and the fertile plains of eastern France shortly after takeoff.
Burgundy Wine Region
The famous patchwork vineyards of the Côte-d'Or near Dijon are visible during the first half of the flight.
Metz and Lorraine
The historic urban landscapes and rolling hills of the Lorraine region as the flight crosses into German airspace.
Hunsrück Range
View the low, forested mountain range in the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate during the descent.
Mainz Cityscape
Just before touchdown, observe the confluence of the Main and Rhine rivers at the historic city of Mainz.
Choose the left side for better views of the Burgundy vineyards and the city of Mainz during the final approach. Morning flights are ideal to avoid direct sun glare, though the landscape is flatter compared to the eastern side.
Distance: 545 km (339 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 55 min
Departure: LYS (45.725556, 5.081111)
Arrival: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.