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RBA destination photo
ORY destination photo

RBAORY

Which side of the plane to sit from Rabat-Salé Airport (Rabat) to Paris-Orly Airport (Paris)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior sequence of landmarks, featuring the rugged Rif Mountains of Morocco, the iconic crossing of the Strait of Gibraltar, the central Spanish high plateaus, and the best opportunity to see the Paris skyline on arrival at Orly.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
⛰️

Rif Mountains

Dramatic limestone peaks and deep valleys in northern Morocco immediately after takeoff.

⛴️

Strait of Gibraltar

The narrow blue divide where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic, often busy with shipping traffic.

🏙️

Madrid Plateau

The sprawling urban expanse of Spain's capital set against the dry Meseta Central.

🏔️

The Pyrenees

A stunning cross-section of the snow-capped mountain range separating Spain and France.

🗼

Paris Skyline

As the plane turns for Orly, the Eiffel Tower and Montparnasse Tower often appear on this side.

Sit on the right for the most diverse geography. For the best views of Paris, monitor the wind direction; Orly often uses runways that require a turn over the northern suburbs, placing the city center perfectly in your window. Late afternoon flights offer spectacular golden-hour lighting over the Pyrenees.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Atlantic Coastline

Panoramic views of the Moroccan coast and the Gulf of Cadiz shortly after departure.

🏖️

Costa de la Luz

Bright white sand beaches and the historic port city of Huelva as you enter Spanish airspace.

🍇

Bordeaux Vineyards

Aerial patterns of the world-famous wine regions in Southwest France.

🏰

Loire Valley

Glimpses of the winding Loire River and its famous Renaissance châteaux.

Choose this side for midday flights to avoid direct sun glare. It provides excellent views of the Gironde Estuary if the flight path tracks slightly west. During the descent into Paris, look for the Palace of Versailles in the distance if approaching from the west.

Top Activities in Paris
Route Information

Distance: 1,797 km (1,117 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 24 min

Departure: RBA (34.051497999999995, -6.751519999999999)

Arrival: ORY (48.7233333, 2.3794444)

Route Type: International

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