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PUF → CDG
Which side of the plane to sit from Pau Pyrénées Airport (Pau) to Charles de Gaulle International Airport (Paris)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally superior for this route as it offers potential views of the Atlantic coastline in the distance during the climb and provides the most iconic views of the Paris city center, including the Eiffel Tower, during the standard arrival procedures into CDG.
Pyrenees Panoramas
Immediately after takeoff, enjoy a sweeping view of the Pyrenees range stretching toward the Atlantic, including the Pic d'Anie.
Landes de Gascogne
Look out over Europe's largest maritime pine forest, a vast green geometric carpet covering the southwestern corner of France.
Bordeaux Vineyards
As you head north, you will pass the prestigious vineyards of the Médoc and Graves regions near the Gironde Estuary.
Western Loire Valley
Spot the winding Loire River and potentially the historic châteaus near Saumur and Angers if the flight path tracks slightly west.
Paris Cityscape
On the final approach to CDG, the left side frequently offers a clear view of the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and La Défense skyline.
Book an early morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the landscape perfectly for photography. During the descent, keep your camera ready as the plane often orbits Paris from the west, placing the city center directly in your window. Use a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze.
Massif Central Peaks
Visible to the east, you can spot the ancient volcanic domes of the Auvergne, including the distinctive Puy de Dôme.
The Garonne River
Watch the silver ribbon of the Garonne as it flows through the countryside toward the confluence at the Gironde.
Chartres Cathedral
As you enter the Paris Basin, look for the tall, mismatched spires of this UNESCO World Heritage site rising above the plains.
Orléans & The Loire
Catch a glimpse of the northernmost bend of the Loire River and the historic city of Orléans.
Disneyland Paris
If the aircraft approaches CDG from the south or east, you may see the colorful structures of the theme park in Marne-la-Vallée.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be on the opposite side, preventing glare. Keep an eye out for the transition from the rugged foothills of the south to the flat, fertile agricultural 'breadbasket' of the Beauce region. Watch for the shadows of the clouds over the Massif Central for dramatic landscape shots.
Distance: 667 km (414 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 7 min
Departure: PUF (43.38000106811523, -0.4186109900474548)
Arrival: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)
Route Type: Domestic
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