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LYS → MRS
Which side of the plane to sit from Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (Lyon) to Marseille Provence Airport (Marseille)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the majestic French Alps on the horizon and the iconic Mont Ventoux, followed by a potential scenic sweep of the Marseille coastline and the Calanques during the descent.
French Alps
Panoramic views of the snow-capped Dauphiné and Savoie Alps visible to the east throughout the flight.
Mont Ventoux
The 'Giant of Provence' stands out as a massive limestone peak rising sharply from the surrounding plains.
Luberon Massif
A glimpse of the famous hilltop villages and lush green valleys of the Luberon regional park.
Marseille Skyline
Stunning views of the Old Port and the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica if landing from the south.
Calanques National Park
Dramatic white limestone cliffs meeting the turquoise Mediterranean sea during the final approach loop.
Choose the left side for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise reflecting off the Rhone. This side is especially rewarding when the Mistral wind forces a southern approach, as the plane circles over the Mediterranean to provide a full view of the city and its rocky inlets. Keep your camera ready as soon as you pass Mont Ventoux.
Rhône River
The flight largely follows the path of this major river as it snakes through southern France.
Avignon
Look for the distinctive Palais des Papes and the famous half-bridge, the Pont d'Avignon.
Massif Central
The rugged, dark ridges of the Cevennes mountains form the horizon to the west.
Ardèche Gorges
In the distance, you can see the deep limestone canyons carved by the Ardèche river.
Étang de Berre
One of the largest saltwater lagoons in Europe, located immediately adjacent to the MRS runway.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Massif Central. It provides a better perspective of the Roman history of the region, including the cities of Orange and Arles. If the plane lands directly from the north, you will have a front-row seat to the Étang de Berre and the Camargue wetlands in the distance.
Distance: 254 km (158 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 25 min
Departure: LYS (45.725556, 5.081111)
Arrival: MRS (43.439271922, 5.22142410278)
Route Type: Domestic
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