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RUN destination photo
ORY destination photo

RUNORY

Which side of the plane to sit from Roland Garros Airport (St.-denis) to Paris-Orly Airport (Paris)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the most consistent lighting for photography and a superior view of the Réunion coastline upon takeoff, followed by prime views of the Sahara and the French countryside.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Réunion West Coast

Breathtaking views of the turquoise lagoons of Saint-Gilles and the rugged volcanic cliffs shortly after takeoff.

🏝️

Western Madagascar

As you head northwest, catch the unique coastline and baobab-dotted landscapes of the 'Great Red Island'.

🏜️

The Sahara Desert

Vast expanses of orange dunes and ancient rock formations across Chad and Libya, best seen in the early morning light.

🏔️

Massif Central

The extinct volcanoes and green plateaus of central France provide a dramatic backdrop before the descent into Paris.

Most RUN-ORY flights are overnight. For the best experience, choose the left side to avoid the direct morning sun glare while crossing the Mediterranean. This side typically gets the best view of the morning light hitting the Sahara. For the arrival at Orly, if the wind is from the west, the left side often sees the Eiffel Tower in the distance during the pattern.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🌋

Piton de la Fournaise

Distant views of Réunion's active volcano and the lush 'Cirques' if the flight path tracks slightly east after departure.

🐪

The Nile River

If the flight path takes an easterly route, you can spot the green ribbon of life cutting through the Egyptian desert.

🏔️

The European Alps

Majestic snow-capped peaks of Switzerland or Italy are often visible if the airway passes through Central Europe.

🗼

Parisian Skyline

On the final approach to Orly, the right side often offers a clear view of the Seine and the iconic monuments of Paris.

The right side is the best choice for those hoping to see the Nile or the Red Sea, though visibility depends on the specific flight plan. During arrival at Orly (specifically Runway 24), the right side frequently offers the best views of the Paris city center. Keep your window shade closed during the late-night portion over central Africa to avoid the intense cabin glare from the rising sun.

Top Activities in Paris
Route Information

Distance: 9,357 km (5,814 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 11 hrs

Departure: RUN (-20.88710021972656, 55.51029968261719)

Arrival: ORY (48.7233333, 2.3794444)

Route Type: International

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