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SDR → CRL
Which side of the plane to sit from Santander Airport (Santander) to Brussels South Charleroi Airport (Charleroi)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior mix of scenic departures from the Spanish coast, potential distant views of the Paris skyline, and a more interesting approach into the industrial heart of Wallonia.
Picos de Europa
On departure, the rugged limestone peaks of the Cantabrian Mountains are visible behind Santander.
Loire Valley Châteaux
The aircraft crosses the heart of France, offering glimpses of the famous river and its historic estates.
Paris Horizon
On clear days, the Eiffel Tower and La Défense business district are often visible on the distant horizon.
Northern French Industry
Industrial landscapes and mining history are visible as you pass near Lille and the Belgian border.
Charleroi Cityscape
A close-up view of the 'Black Country' (Pays Noir) and its unique industrial heritage during the final approach.
The right side is ideal for landmark spotting. Keep your eyes peeled roughly 45-50 minutes into the flight for a distant view of Paris to the east. For the best photography of the Picos de Europa shortly after takeoff, sit behind the wing to capture the mountains against the Spanish coastline. Afternoon flights provide the best lighting for this side.
Bay of Biscay
Expansive views of the deep blue Atlantic as the aircraft levels out after departing the Cantabrian coast.
Vendée Coastline
The first sight of France often includes the sandy beaches and islands like Île d'Yeu or Noirmoutier.
Nantes & Loire Estuary
View of the city of Nantes and the winding mouth of the Loire River as it meets the ocean.
Brittany & Normandy Borders
Patches of lush green French countryside and the rolling hills of the historic western provinces.
Hainaut Province
The final descent offers views of the Belgian countryside characterized by small villages and agricultural plots.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. It is the best side for viewing the French Atlantic coastline and the transition from sea to land near Nantes. Look out for the distinct salt marshes and oyster beds of the Charente-Maritime region if the path is slightly further east.
Distance: 1,002 km (623 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 20 min
Departure: SDR (43.427101135253906, -3.82000994682312)
Arrival: CRL (50.459202000000005, 4.4538199999999994)
Route Type: International
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