While takeoff favors the right for Paris views, the landing approach into Luton from the southwest makes left-side seats the overall winner. The descent provides superior views of the Thames valley, London's metropolitan area, and the Chiltern Hills—more visually dramatic than the takeoff scenery.
Flown CDG to LTN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Paris to London is 236 miles (380 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
English Channel crossing (visible as open water between Kent/Sussex coast and French coast near Dieppe), Kent countryside with its patchwork fields and scattered towns, Sussex Weald, and the transition from French agricultural plains to English rolling terrain
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpg?width=600)
.jpeg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from CDG
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Paris and the Seine valley as the aircraft climbs northeastward. You'll see the city sprawl and surrounding agricultural plains clearly before heading toward the English Channel.
Landing at LTN
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Luton. You'll see the Thames valley, London's urban sprawl, and the Chiltern Hills as the aircraft approaches from the southwest. The contrast between London's density and the surrounding countryside is striking.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Charles De Gaulle (CDG) to Luton (LTN)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Paris to London. While takeoff favors the right for Paris views, the landing approach into Luton from the southwest makes left-side seats the overall winner. The descent provides superior views of the Thames valley, London's metropolitan area, and the Chiltern Hills—more visually dramatic than the takeoff scenery.
What can I see during takeoff from Charles De Gaulle in Paris?
During takeoff from Charles De Gaulle (CDG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Paris and the Seine valley as the aircraft climbs northeastward. You'll see the city sprawl and surrounding agricultural plains clearly before heading toward the English Channel. Notable sights include: Paris city center and suburbs, Seine River winding through the Île-de-France region, Fontainebleau Forest (southeast, visible as dark forested area), agricultural patchwork of northern France.
What can I see when landing at Luton in London?
When landing at Luton (LTN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Luton. You'll see the Thames valley, London's urban sprawl, and the Chiltern Hills as the aircraft approaches from the southwest. The contrast between London's density and the surrounding countryside is striking. Notable sights include: Thames River and its valley, London metropolitan area (sprawling urban expanse), Chiltern Hills (chalk escarpment visible as elevated terrain north of London), Essex farmland and towns.
How long is the flight from Paris to London?
The flight from Charles De Gaulle (CDG) to Luton (LTN) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 236 miles (380 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Paris to London flight path pass over?
English Channel crossing (visible as open water between Kent/Sussex coast and French coast near Dieppe), Kent countryside with its patchwork fields and scattered towns, Sussex Weald, and the transition from French agricultural plains to English rolling terrain