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PHL โ CDG
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to Charles de Gaulle International Airport (Paris)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this transatlantic route, offering the best chances for spotting the Aurora Borealis over the North Atlantic and breathtaking views of the rugged Canadian Maritimes and potentially Greenland.
Newfoundland Coastline
Watch the rugged, rocky shores of eastern Canada as you leave North America and head into the Atlantic.
Southern Greenland
On more northerly flight paths, catch glimpses of massive glaciers and the jagged peaks of the Greenland ice sheet.
Aurora Borealis
Facing north during the dark hours of this overnight flight provides a prime vantage point for viewing the Northern Lights.
Irish Coastline
As you reach Europe, the emerald green fields and dramatic cliffs of the Irish coast come into view.
English Channel
View the world's busiest shipping lanes and the famous white cliffs as you transition from the UK to mainland Europe.
Book a window seat on the left for the best chance to see the Northern Lights during the middle of the night. Because this is an eastbound red-eye, the sun will rise quickly; keeping your shade closed until the early morning light hits the European coast will help you sleep while preserving your view for the final approach.
Jersey Shore
See the glittering lights of the New Jersey and New York coastlines shortly after departing Philadelphia.
Atlantic Sunrise
Experience a spectacular sunrise over the open ocean, with colors reflecting off the clouds as you approach Europe.
Normandy Countryside
View the historic D-Day beaches and the iconic patchwork fields of the French agricultural heartland.
Paris Skyline
Depending on the landing configuration at CDG, you may see the Eiffel Tower and La Dรฉfense business district on the horizon.
The right side is perfect for those who enjoy watching the sunrise over the horizon. Be aware that the morning sun can be very bright during the final two hours of the flight, so bring sunglasses. On the descent into CDG, look out for the unique circular architecture of Terminal 1 and the sprawling layout of the French capital.
Distance: 5,984 km (3,718 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 2 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)
Route Type: International
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