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ORY โ SXM
Which side of the plane to sit from Paris-Orly Airport (Paris) to Princess Juliana International Airport (Philipsburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most spectacular views during the descent into Princess Juliana International Airport, including the turquoise waters of Anguilla and the northern coast of St. Martin.
Brittany Peninsula
The rugged western coastline of France and the Bay of Biscay as the aircraft leaves European airspace.
Anguilla
A stunning bird's-eye view of the long, flat coral island and its white-sand beaches just before the final turn.
Grand Case
Views of the French side of the island (Saint-Martin) as the plane maneuvers for its landing sequence.
Simpson Bay
Incredible views of the deep blue lagoons and coral reefs surrounding the island's northern shore.
Maho Beach Approach
The final moments before touchdown provide a glimpse of the world-famous beach where planes fly low over tourists.
The right side is ideal for photography because it is the 'shaded' side on a westbound afternoon flight, reducing glare. Most landings at SXM occur on Runway 10, which requires a flight path north of the island; the right side provides the best view of Anguilla and the turquoise shoals of the Caribbean during the descent.
Parisian Outskirts
Aerial views of the southern Paris metropolitan area and the French countryside immediately after takeoff.
Loire Valley
Glances of the longest river in France as the flight path heads southwest toward the coast.
St. Barthรฉlemy
During the final approach phase, the prestigious island of St. Barts is often visible to the south.
Saba & Statia
Distant views of the dramatic volcanic peaks of Saba and Sint Eustatius emerging from the Caribbean Sea.
On this westbound transatlantic route, the left side faces south, meaning you will deal with direct sunlight for most of the 8-9 hour flight. Keep your window shade down during the mid-Atlantic crossing to prevent cabin overheating, but open it 30 minutes before arrival to spot the neighboring Leeward Islands.
Distance: 6,723 km (4,177 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 55 min
Departure: ORY (48.7233333, 2.3794444)
Arrival: SXM (18.0410003662, -63.1088981628)
Route Type: International
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