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RLG → CGN
Which side of the plane to sit from Rostock-Laage Airport (Laage) to Cologne Bonn Airport (Cologne)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a panoramic view of Northern Germany's transition from the coastal plains to the dense industrial heartland of the Ruhr region, concluding with an excellent view of the Rhine River.
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Schwerin Castle
Located on an island in the Schweriner See, this 'Neuschwanstein of the North' is a highlight visible early in the flight.
Elbe River Crossing
The flight path typically crosses the Elbe south of Hamburg, offering views of the massive river artery and its shipping traffic.
Ruhr Metropolitan Area
A spectacular urban sprawl featuring the interconnected cities of Dortmund, Bochum, and Essen.
The Rhine Bend
The majestic Rhine River comes into view as the aircraft maneuvers for landing, often showing the industrial ports of Leverkusen and Cologne.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to enjoy the sun illuminating the Ruhr landscape. It provides the most consistent landmarks, including the major river crossings. For the best views of the industrial Ruhr area, ensure you are seated behind the wing for an unobstructed downward view of the urban grid. Seasonal tip: in winter, the frozen lakes near Schwerin are particularly striking from this side.
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Mecklenburg Lake District
Shortly after takeoff, view the southern edge of Germany's largest contiguous lake region with its deep blue glacial waters.
Teutoburg Forest
A prominent forested ridge that stands out against the flat agricultural landscape of Westphalia.
Sauerland Highlands
Rolling green hills and reservoirs visible to the south as the flight approaches the Rhineland.
Cologne Cathedral
Depending on the landing pattern for Runway 14L, the world-famous twin spires are often visible on the left side during final descent.
Choose the left side for better lighting during afternoon flights to avoid the direct western sun. Keep an eye out for the Paderborn plateau and the transition into the Bergisches Land hills. On a clear day, you might see the distant Harz mountains to the far south.
Get eSIMs for Germany
Get eSIMs for GermanyDistance: 486 km (302 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 49 min
Departure: RLG (53.9182014465, 12.2783002853)
Arrival: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)
Route Type: Domestic
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