While takeoff from CDG offers modest suburban and agricultural views, the landing approach into London City Airport provides significantly more visual interest with the Thames estuary, Canary Wharf skyline, and central London landmarks. The right side captures the dramatic urban density and water features of London's approach, whereas the left side during landing shows only flat marshland. The landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.
Flown CDG to LCY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Paris to London is 205 miles (330 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
English Channel crossing (approximately 20 minutes of flight time over open water), Kent coastline with white cliffs near Dover visible on right side during descent, North Downs ridge visible inland from the coast
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from CDG
LEFTParis suburbs and Seine valley visible during climb-out from CDG, with some urban sprawl and patchwork farmland. Right side faces inland toward flat Île-de-France plains with minimal visual interest.
Landing at LCY
RIGHTApproach to London City Airport offers views of the Thames estuary, Canary Wharf skyline, and the distinctive bend of the Thames through central London. Left side shows Essex marshlands and industrial areas with less visual drama.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Charles De Gaulle (CDG) to City (LCY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Paris to London. While takeoff from CDG offers modest suburban and agricultural views, the landing approach into London City Airport provides significantly more visual interest with the Thames estuary, Canary Wharf skyline, and central London landmarks. The right side captures the dramatic urban density and water features of London's approach, whereas the left side during landing shows only flat marshland. The landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.
What can I see during takeoff from Charles De Gaulle in Paris?
During takeoff from Charles De Gaulle (CDG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Paris suburbs and Seine valley visible during climb-out from CDG, with some urban sprawl and patchwork farmland. Right side faces inland toward flat Île-de-France plains with minimal visual interest. Notable sights include: Seine River winding through Paris suburbs, CDG airport complex receding below, Montmartre basilica dome visible in distance on clear days, patchwork agricultural fields of Île-de-France.
What can I see when landing at City in London?
When landing at City (LCY), sit on the Right side for the best views. Approach to London City Airport offers views of the Thames estuary, Canary Wharf skyline, and the distinctive bend of the Thames through central London. Left side shows Essex marshlands and industrial areas with less visual drama. Notable sights include: Thames River with its characteristic meanders through East London, Canary Wharf tower cluster dominating the skyline, Tower Bridge and central London landmarks, Isle of Dogs peninsula.
How long is the flight from Paris to London?
The flight from Charles De Gaulle (CDG) to City (LCY) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 205 miles (330 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Paris to London flight path pass over?
English Channel crossing (approximately 20 minutes of flight time over open water), Kent coastline with white cliffs near Dover visible on right side during descent, North Downs ridge visible inland from the coast