Loading map...

QSF destination photo
LYS destination photo

QSFLYS

Which side of the plane to sit from Ain Arnat Airport (Setif) to Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (Lyon)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior mix of scenic Algerian coastlines, sweeping views of the Mediterranean towards Corsica, and a breathtaking perspective of the French Alps and Mont Blanc during the descent into Lyon.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏔️

Petite Kabylie

Dramatic views of the forested mountains meeting the Mediterranean sea near Bejaia shortly after departure.

🏖️

French Riviera Distant View

On clear days, the distant coastline of the Côte d'Azur and Marseille is visible to the east.

🏔️

French Alps

A stunning panorama of the snow-capped Alps, including the silhouette of Mont Blanc on the horizon during descent.

🍇

Rhône Valley

The lush vineyards and winding river paths of the northern Rhône wine region as you approach LYS.

✈️

LYS Terminal Architecture

The iconic bird-like design of the Lyon Saint-Exupéry TGV station is often visible just before touchdown.

The right side is the 'scenic side' for geography lovers. For the best experience, choose an afternoon flight when the sun illuminates the Alps to the east. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the Mont Blanc reveal.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏜️

Setif High Plateaus

The semi-arid high plains of northeastern Algeria visible immediately after takeoff from Ain Arnat.

🌊

Gulf of Lion

Aerial crossing of the Mediterranean, entering French airspace near the Languedoc-Roussillon coast.

🌋

Massif Central

Ancient volcanic peaks and the rugged terrain of the Cévennes National Park in southern France.

🏙️

Lyon Urban Core

Excellent views of the Presqu'île, Fourvière Hill, and the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers on final approach.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun glare. During the final descent, this side provides the best view of the historic center of Lyon and its distinctive architecture if the wind is blowing from the north.

Top Activities in Lyon
Route Information

Distance: 1,062 km (660 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min

Departure: QSF (36.178100585900005, 5.32449007034)

Arrival: LYS (45.725556, 5.081111)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.