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ORY → ALC
Which side of the plane to sit from Paris-Orly Airport (Paris) to Alicante International Airport (Alicante)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the volcanic Auvergne region in France and a stunning coastal approach over the Mediterranean Sea and Valencia before landing in Alicante.
Fontainebleau Forest
Immediately after departure from Orly, look down to see one of France's largest and most famous royal hunting forests.
Auvergne Volcanoes
Aerial views of the Chaîne des Puys, a series of dormant volcanic cinder cones in the Massif Central.
Eastern Pyrenees
A breathtaking crossing of the snow-capped border between France and Spain, often passing near Perpignan.
Valencia & Albufera
The city of Valencia and the large freshwater lagoon of the Albufera Natural Park are visible on the descent.
Costa Blanca Coastline
Striking views of the Mediterranean shoreline and turquoise waters as the plane aligns for the final approach.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and enjoy the soft light hitting the Spanish coast. On descent, this side typically provides a better view of the Mediterranean horizon and the city of Valencia. Sit forward of the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the Pyrenees.
Loire Valley
Glimpses of the winding Loire river and the northern edge of France's famous chateaux region.
Central Pyrenees Peaks
Views of the highest parts of the mountain range, including the Maladeta Massif and Aneto peak.
Aragon Steppes
The rugged, semi-arid landscapes of the Ebro basin, featuring dramatic clay formations and canyons.
Sistema Ibérico
The rugged mountain chains of central Spain, offering a contrast of red earth and deep green pines.
Palmeral of Elche
Just before touchdown, look for the massive UNESCO-protected palm groves surrounding the city of Elche.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to see the sun reflecting off the Ebro River. It provides a more intimate view of the high Pyrenean peaks and the unique, desert-like topography of central Spain. Watch for the distinct change from lush French greenery to the scorched earth of the Spanish interior.
Distance: 1,185 km (736 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: ORY (48.7233333, 2.3794444)
Arrival: ALC (38.28219985961914, -0.5581560134887695)
Route Type: International
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