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PUF destination photo
ORY destination photo

PUFORY

Which side of the plane to sit from Pau Pyrénées Airport (Pau) to Paris-Orly Airport (Paris)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a spectacular farewell view of the Pyrenees peaks during the climb, followed by a panoramic perspective of the French countryside and the majestic Fontainebleau forest before descending into Orly.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Pyrenees Mountains

Stunning views of the snow-capped peaks of the Pic du Midi and the high Pyrenees immediately after takeoff.

🥧

Gers Rolling Hills

The picturesque, undulating farmland and terracotta-roofed villages of the Gascony region.

🛶

Dordogne River

The intricate loops and limestone cliffs of the Dordogne valley visible during the mid-flight cruise.

🏘️

Orléans Cityscape

A clear view of the historic city on the northernmost bend of the Loire river.

🌳

Fontainebleau Forest

A vast, ancient hunting forest that signals the final approach into the Paris region.

🗼

Paris Suburban Skyline

As the plane aligns with the runway, look for the skyscrapers of La Défense and the Montparnasse Tower.

Sit on the right side for morning flights to get the best light on the Pyrenees. Be ready with your camera immediately after takeoff, as the mountain view is most dramatic during the initial ascent. During the descent, this side often provides the best look at the sprawling greenery of Fontainebleau.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🌲

Landes Forest

The massive, uniform green expanse of Europe's largest maritime pine forest stretches toward the coast.

🍷

Bordeaux & Garonne

Aerial views of the crescent-shaped city and the winding Garonne river as you head north.

🌊

Atlantic Horizon

On very clear days, the silver glint of the Bay of Biscay is visible on the western horizon.

🏰

Loire Valley Castles

Spot the western reaches of the Valley of the Kings and the white stone chateaus near Tours.

⛪

Chartres Cathedral

The distinct silhouette and asymmetrical spires of this Gothic masterpiece rising from the Beauce plains.

Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the direct southern sun. This side is excellent for spotting the silver reflection of the Atlantic on the horizon during clear weather. It also offers the best view of the Eiffel Tower if the plane approaches Orly from the west and turns north.

Top Activities in Paris
Route Information

Distance: 632 km (393 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 3 min

Departure: PUF (43.38000106811523, -0.4186109900474548)

Arrival: ORY (48.7233333, 2.3794444)

Route Type: Domestic

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