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RAK destination photo
LYS destination photo

RAKLYS

Which side of the plane to sit from Menara Airport (Marrakech) to Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (Lyon)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers an unparalleled vantage point of the High Atlas Mountains immediately after takeoff and a spectacular panoramic view of the French Alps during the descent into Lyon.

Right Side Highlights
8.9
🏔️

High Atlas Peaks

Stunning views of the snow-capped Toubkal massif shortly after departing from Marrakech Menara.

🏖️

Mediterranean Coastline

Continuous views of the Spanish 'Costas' and the blue expanse of the Balearic Sea.

🌿

Provence & Camargue

The unique salt marshes of the Rhone delta and the silver-green landscape of French olive groves and vineyards.

❄️

French Alps Panorama

Breathtaking views of the Western Alps, including distant sightings of Mont Blanc on clear days during the approach to LYS.

🚤

Rhône River

The majestic Rhône river guiding the aircraft into the Lyon basin for final landing.

Sit on the right for the most iconic landmarks. During the first 15 minutes, keep your camera ready for the Atlas Mountains. On the approach to Lyon, look northeast to spot the high Alpine peaks. Afternoon flights provide the best lighting for the French landscape.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Moroccan Atlantic Coast

Aerial views of the rugged coastline stretching toward Casablanca as the plane climbs to cruising altitude.

🏙️

Spanish Interior

Vast plains of the Iberian Peninsula, with potential views of the outskirts of Madrid or the historic La Mancha region.

⛰️

Pyrenees Border

The dramatic western ridge of the Pyrenees mountains separating the Iberian Peninsula from mainland France.

🌋

Massif Central

Ancient volcanic peaks and rugged highlands of central France visible during the initial descent phase.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and for great views of the sunset over the Atlantic on late afternoon departures. This side is also better for spotting the winding Garonne river system.

Top Activities in Lyon
Route Information

Distance: 1,934 km (1,202 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 35 min

Departure: RAK (31.6068992615, -8.036299705510002)

Arrival: LYS (45.725556, 5.081111)

Route Type: International

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