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NCE → LYS
Which side of the plane to sit from Nice-Côte d'Azur Airport (Nice) to Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (Lyon)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a continuous and spectacular panorama of the French Alps, including high-altitude glaciers and the distant silhouette of Mont Blanc.
Mercantour National Park
Rugged alpine terrain and jagged peaks visible almost immediately after leaving the coast.
Verdon Gorge
The deep limestone canyons and turquoise waters of Europe's largest canyon can often be spotted to the east.
Massif des Écrins
High-altitude glacial peaks including the Barre des Écrins, standing over 4,000 meters tall.
Mont Blanc
On clear days, the highest peak in the Alps is visible on the distant horizon as you reach cruising altitude.
Lac de Paladru
A beautiful natural lake known for its crystal blue waters seen during the descent phase into Saint-Exupéry.
The right side is essential for mountain lovers. Sit here during the winter months for the most dramatic views of snow-capped peaks. For the best photography, a morning flight will illuminate the western faces of the Alps perfectly. Avoid sitting directly over the wing as this route is short and remains at altitudes where ground detail is highly visible.
Baie des Anges
Breathtaking aerial view of the turquoise Mediterranean coastline and Nice's Promenade des Anglais during the initial climb.
Massif de l'Esterel
Distinctive red volcanic rock formations that contrast sharply with the deep blue sea near Cannes.
Provence Vineyards
A mosaic of agricultural fields and lavender rows characteristic of the Southern French countryside.
Rhône River
The major waterway of the region appearing as a silver ribbon as the flight tracks north toward Lyon.
Lyon Confluence
On final descent, view the meeting point of the Saône and Rhône rivers and the modern architecture of the Confluence district.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. It is the best side for photography of the Mediterranean coast and the Luberon regional park. During landing, if the aircraft approaches from the north, you will have an excellent view of the Lyon urban area and its historic 'Presqu'île'.
Distance: 285 km (177 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 29 min
Departure: NCE (43.658401489300005, 7.215869903560001)
Arrival: LYS (45.725556, 5.081111)
Route Type: Domestic
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