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RNS → BOD
Which side of the plane to sit from Rennes-Saint-Jacques Airport (Rennes) to Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (Bordeaux)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular aerial tour of the French Atlantic coastline, featuring a sequence of famous islands, historic forts, and the grand entry into the Gironde Estuary.
Atlantic Islands
Sequential views of Noirmoutier, Île d'Yeu, Île de Ré, and Île d'Oléron along the coast.
Saint-Nazaire Bridge
The impressive cable-stayed bridge crossing the mouth of the Loire estuary.
Fort Boyard
The famous 19th-century sea fort located between the Île d'Aix and the Île d'Oléron.
Gironde Estuary
The massive silt-laden waters of Europe's largest estuary as you begin the descent.
Médoc Peninsula
Bird's-eye view of world-renowned wine estates like Latour and Lafite Rothschild on the final approach.
The right side is significantly more scenic for this coastal route. For the best lighting, book an evening flight to watch the sunset over the Bay of Biscay. During the final 10 minutes, look for the 'Cordouan Lighthouse' at the mouth of the estuary and the perfectly manicured châteaux of the Médoc wine region.
Nantes Cityscape
A clear view of the urban sprawl of Nantes and the Erdre river joining the Loire.
The Loire River
Crossing the longest river in France as it meanders through the Pays de la Loire region.
Marais Poitevin
The 'Green Venice' area, visible as a vast network of canals and lush green wetlands.
Cognac Vineyards
Rolling countryside and geometric patterns of the white grape vineyards in the Charente region.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the Atlantic sun. It is ideal for seeing the intricate canal patterns of the Marais Poitevin and the inland river systems. Keep an eye out for the distinctive architecture of Niort halfway through the flight.
Distance: 369 km (229 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 37 min
Departure: RNS (48.0694999695, -1.73478996754)
Arrival: BOD (44.8283004761, -0.7155560255050001)
Route Type: Domestic
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