While the takeoff from Paris offers classic European scenery, the landing approach into Louisville provides more dramatic and continuous visual interest with the Ohio River's distinctive geography and the city's relationship to the waterway. The right side captures the defining feature of Louisville's location.
Flown CDG to LOU? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Paris to Louisville is 4,222 miles (6,795 km), a flight of about 9 hours 15 minutes.
The transatlantic crossing offers limited landmark visibility over the Atlantic Ocean. Notable features include the Irish coast and Celtic Sea during the westbound departure phase, then open ocean for the majority of the flight. As you approach North America, the Canadian Maritime provinces and New England coastline become visible. Over the continental United States, the Appalachian Mountains (particularly visible in West Virginia and eastern Kentucky) form a significant ridge running north-south, appearing as a series of parallel ridges and valleys. The Ohio River valley becomes increasingly prominent as you descend toward Louisville, with the river's characteristic meanders visible from altitude.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase

Takeoff from CDG
LEFTLeft side offers views of the Seine River winding through Paris and the surrounding Île-de-France region. You'll see the city's urban sprawl and the agricultural plains extending northwestward toward Normandy.
Landing at LOU
RIGHTRight side provides views of the Ohio River and Louisville's position along it as you descend into Bowman Field. You'll see the river's distinctive meanders and the city's urban layout along the waterway.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Charles De Gaulle (CDG) to Bowman Fld (LOU)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Paris to Louisville. While the takeoff from Paris offers classic European scenery, the landing approach into Louisville provides more dramatic and continuous visual interest with the Ohio River's distinctive geography and the city's relationship to the waterway. The right side captures the defining feature of Louisville's location.
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. Left side offers views of the Seine River winding through Paris and the surrounding Île-de-France region. You'll see the city's urban sprawl and the agricultural plains extending northwestward toward Normandy. Notable sights include: Seine River, Paris metropolitan area, Île-de-France plains, Roissy-en-France area.
What can I see when landing at Bowman Fld in Louisville?
When landing at Bowman Fld (LOU), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Ohio River and Louisville's position along it as you descend into Bowman Field. You'll see the river's distinctive meanders and the city's urban layout along the waterway. Notable sights include: Ohio River, Louisville skyline, Jefferson County urban area, Indiana shoreline across the river.
How long is the flight from Paris to Louisville?
The flight from Charles De Gaulle (CDG) to Bowman Fld (LOU) takes about 9 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 4,222 miles (6,795 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Paris to Louisville flight path pass over?
The transatlantic crossing offers limited landmark visibility over the Atlantic Ocean. Notable features include the Irish coast and Celtic Sea during the westbound departure phase, then open ocean for the majority of the flight. As you approach North America, the Canadian Maritime provinces and New England coastline become visible. Over the continental United States, the Appalachian Mountains (particularly visible in West Virginia and eastern Kentucky) form a significant ridge running north-south, appearing as a series of parallel ridges and valleys. The Ohio River valley becomes increasingly prominent as you descend toward Louisville, with the river's characteristic meanders visible from altitude.