Loading map...
YUL β CDG
Which side of the plane to sit from Montreal / Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (Montreal) to Charles de Gaulle International Airport (Paris)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic views of the Canadian wilderness, potential sightings of Greenland's icy coastline, and a more comfortable viewing angle away from the direct morning sun during the arrival into Europe.
St. Lawrence River
Dramatic views of the widening river and the Laurentian Mountains shortly after departing Montreal.
Newfoundland Coast
The rugged, fjord-indented coastline of Newfoundland as the flight transitions to the North Atlantic.
Greenland Icecap
Depending on the day's North Atlantic Tracks, you may see the jagged peaks and glaciers of Southern Greenland.
Irish Shoreline
The first sight of Europe often features the lush green landscapes and dramatic cliffs of the Irish coast.
Normandy Coast
Views of the historic beaches and white chalk cliffs of Northern France during the descent into Paris.
The left side is superior for overnight flights as it faces north, significantly increasing your chances of spotting the Aurora Borealis during winter months. It also avoids the harsh glare of the sunrise, making it easier to see the landscape during the final two hours of flight. Watch the flight map; landfall over Ireland usually occurs about 5.5 hours after takeoff.
Montreal Skyline
Excellent views of downtown Montreal and Mount Royal if the wind requires an eastbound departure.
Atlantic Sunrise
An unobstructed view of the sun rising over the ocean horizon during the mid-flight transition.
English Channel
Sightings of cargo ships and ferries navigating one of the world's busiest shipping lanes.
French Countryside
The patchwork of agricultural fields and small villages in the Picardy and Γle-de-France regions.
Be prepared for intense sunlight on this side as you fly eastward into the dawn; high-quality sunglasses are recommended for the morning arrival. If the flight path is southerly, you might see the coastline of Nova Scotia. During the approach to CDG, you may occasionally spot the Eiffel Tower in the far distance if the plane circles south of the city.
Distance: 5,523 km (3,432 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 30 min
Departure: YUL (45.4706001282, -73.7407989502)
Arrival: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.