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ORY → IKA
Which side of the plane to sit from Paris-Orly Airport (Paris) to Imam Khomeini International Airport (Tehran)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the preferred choice for this route, primarily due to the spectacular approach into Tehran which features the Alborz mountain range and the majestic, snow-capped cone of Mount Damavand.
Parisian Suburbs
Bird's eye views of the southern Paris metropolitan area and the Seine river valley immediately after takeoff.
Swiss Alps
The northern slopes of the Alps, offering vistas of Lake Constance and the jagged peaks of central Switzerland.
Black Sea Coastline
Dramatic views of the Turkish coastline where the Pontic Mountains meet the deep blue waters of the Black Sea.
Mount Ararat
The legendary dormant volcano near the border of Turkey and Armenia, often visible as a massive solitary peak.
Mount Damavand
The highest peak in Iran and the highest volcano in Asia, seen as a perfect conical shape during the descent into Tehran.
Book a window seat on the left for the ultimate approach. Mount Damavand will appear roughly 20-30 minutes before landing. On evening flights, the northern horizon often holds a beautiful twilight glow over the Caucasus mountains. Ensure your window is clean for the descent as the Alborz range provides excellent photo opportunities.
The High Alps
Excellent views of the highest European peaks, including Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn, depending on the specific airway.
Adriatic Coast
The turquoise waters and thousands of islands along the Croatian and Balkan coastlines.
Anatolian Plateau
The vast, rugged, and multi-colored landscapes of central Turkey, featuring unique geological formations.
Lake Van
Turkey's largest lake, known for its intense blue color and surrounding volcanic peaks like Nemrut Dağı.
Dasht-e Kavir
The northern edge of the Great Salt Desert of Iran, showcasing mesmerizing salt crusts and arid patterns.
The right side is superior for mountain lovers during the first half of the flight, offering closer proximity to the high Alpine summits. Be mindful of the sun; on eastbound flights during the day, the right side will be direct-sun facing, which can lead to glare and heat. Use a polarizing filter for photos of the Anatolian lakes to cut through the atmospheric haze.
Distance: 4,206 km (2,613 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 57 min
Departure: ORY (48.7233333, 2.3794444)
Arrival: IKA (35.416099548339844, 51.152198791503906)
Route Type: International
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