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ORY → MPL
Which side of the plane to sit from Paris-Orly Airport (Paris) to Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport (Montpellier)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a front-row seat to the dramatic volcanic landscapes of the Massif Central, including the UNESCO-listed Chaîne des Puys, and provides a stunning panoramic view of Montpellier and the coastline upon descent.
Loire Valley Fringe
Views of the upper Loire river basin and the transition into the rural heart of central France.
Chaîne des Puys
A spectacular alignment of over 80 dormant volcanic craters, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Puy de Dôme
The highest and most famous volcano in the region, easily identified by the large telecommunications tower at its summit.
Languedoc Vineyards
The landscape transforms into a patchwork of vineyards as the aircraft descends into the Hérault department.
Montpellier Skyline
A sweeping view of the city, including the modern Antigone district, just moments before touching down.
For the best photographic results of the volcanoes, book a morning flight when the craters are perfectly lit by the eastern sun. Ensure you are seated away from the wing (rows 1-10 or 25+) to have an unobstructed downward view of the Auvergne terrain.
Parisian Suburbs
Aerial perspectives of the densely populated southern Ile-de-France region shortly after takeoff from Orly.
Distant French Alps
On exceptionally clear days, the snow-capped peaks of the Alps and Mont Blanc are visible on the far eastern horizon.
Camargue Wetlands
As the plane turns for its final approach, the salt pans and lagoons of the Camargue biosphere reserve appear.
Étang de l'Or
A close-up view of the coastal lagoons and the thin strips of land separating the Mediterranean from the mainland.
The left side is preferable for late afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the setting sun. It is also the side to choose if you want a chance to spot the distant Alps. During landing, look for the unique pink hue of the salt marshes near Aigues-Mortes.
Distance: 585 km (364 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 59 min
Departure: ORY (48.7233333, 2.3794444)
Arrival: MPL (43.57619857788086, 3.96301007270813)
Route Type: Domestic
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