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ZRH destination photo
LPA destination photo

ZRHLPA

Which side of the plane to sit from Zürich Airport (Zurich) to Gran Canaria Airport (Gran Canaria)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a front-row seat to the most dramatic peaks of the Alps shortly after takeoff and provides the best perspective of the neighboring Canary Islands during the final descent into Gran Canaria.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏔️

The Swiss Alps

Breathtaking views of the Bernese Oberland peaks, including the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, shortly after departure.

❄️

Mont Blanc

Europe's highest peak is often visible in the distance as the flight crosses into French airspace.

⛰️

The Pyrenees

A spectacular crossing of the rugged mountain range that forms the natural border between France and Spain.

🏙️

Madrid Metropolitan Area

Depending on the specific airway, the vast sprawl of the Spanish capital is often visible mid-flight.

🏝️

Fuerteventura & Lanzarote

During the descent, you get clear views of the volcanic landscapes and turquoise waters of the eastern Canary Islands.

Choose the left side for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise reflecting off the Alps without direct glare later in the journey. During descent into LPA, the left side usually faces the neighboring islands of Fuerteventura or the southern tip of Lanzarote, providing a beautiful introduction to the archipelago's volcanic geography. Keep your camera ready about 15-20 minutes after takeoff for the best Alpine shots.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
💧

Lake Geneva

The iconic crescent-shaped lake and the city of Geneva are frequently visible on the right shortly after leaving Swiss airspace.

🌋

Massif Central

Views of the ancient, dormant volcanic domes and lush green plateaus of south-central France.

🌊

Bay of Biscay Coast

A glimpse of the French and Spanish Atlantic coastline where the mountains meet the deep blue sea.

🌅

Atlantic Horizon

Uninterrupted views of the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean on afternoon or evening flights.

🏜️

Gran Canaria West Coast

If the flight approaches from the north and loops west, you will see the dramatic 'Dragon's Tail' cliffs of the island.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. It provides excellent views of Lake Geneva and the Jura Mountains early on. While over the Atlantic, look for the 'Teide' peak on Tenerife piercing through the clouds in the distance to the west. If the wind requires a landing from the south, the right side offers a spectacular view of the island's rugged, mountainous interior during the final turn.

Top Activities in Gran Canaria
Route Information

Distance: 3,001 km (1,865 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 32 min

Departure: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Arrival: LPA (27.931900024414062, -15.38659954071045)

Route Type: International

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