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LYS → VIE
Which side of the plane to sit from Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (Lyon) to Vienna International Airport (Vienna)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides an unparalleled panorama of the high Alps, including the Mont Blanc massif early in the flight and the dramatic Austrian peaks later on.
Mont Blanc Massif
Western Europe's highest peak is often visible to the south shortly after departure from Lyon.
Bernese Oberland
The iconic trio of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks piercing the Swiss skyline.
Tyrolean Alps
Jagged, snow-capped peaks of western Austria, including the Arlberg and Innsbruck regions.
Grossglockner
Austria's highest mountain may be visible in the distance within the Hohe Tauern range.
Salzkammergut Lakes
The stunning turquoise waters of Lake Attersee and Traunsee nestled between limestone massifs.
Vienna Woods and Danube
The lush green hills surrounding Vienna and the winding Danube River on final approach.
The right side is essential for mountain lovers. Book a morning flight for the best illumination of the Alpine north faces. Be sure to look out early for Mont Blanc and keep your camera ready for the Salzkammergut lake district about 20 minutes before landing. Avoid seats directly over the wing for unobstructed views of the peaks.
Jura Mountains
Dramatic limestone ridges stretching along the French-Swiss border shortly after takeoff.
Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)
The crescent-shaped lake with views of Lausanne and the Swiss Riviera on the northern shore.
Lake Constance (Bodensee)
A massive lake shared by Switzerland, Germany, and Austria, visible as the flight heads east.
Bavarian Foothills
The rolling green landscapes of southern Germany and distant views of the Munich area.
Abbeys and Castles
Numerous historic structures dotting the landscape of Upper Austria during the descent.
Choose the left side for better lighting during afternoon flights to avoid the sun's glare. It offers a broader view of the Swiss plateau and the large lakes of the northern Alpine rim. Watch for the distinctive shape of Lake Constance, which serves as a major waypoint.
Distance: 911 km (566 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 31 min
Departure: LYS (45.725556, 5.081111)
Arrival: VIE (48.110298156738, 16.569700241089002)
Route Type: International
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