While takeoff scenery is minor on both sides, the left side's distant but recognizable view of Paris and the Seine during the final approach into CDG gives it a clear edge over the modest foothill glimpse on departure, especially given the many hours of featureless Atlantic cruise in between.
Flight Path
Open North Atlantic Ocean between Newfoundland and Ireland, with no land visible for several hours of cruise
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from CLT
RIGHTDeparting CLT in the more common south flow, the initial southbound climb puts the western horizon on the right side, offering a brief view of Lake Wylie, the Catawba River, and the low, distant blue-tinted ridgelines of the Blue Ridge foothills. It's a mild view over rolling Piedmont terrain rather than anything dramatic.
Landing at CDG
LEFTIn the prevailing westerly (27) configuration, aircraft arriving from the northwest are vectored south of the field before turning onto final approach heading west, putting Paris to the left side. Passengers get a distant but genuine view of the Paris skyline and the Seine winding through the city before the plane lines up on the runway.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Charlotte Douglas International (CLT) to Charles De Gaulle (CDG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Charlotte to Paris. While takeoff scenery is minor on both sides, the left side's distant but recognizable view of Paris and the Seine during the final approach into CDG gives it a clear edge over the modest foothill glimpse on departure, especially given the many hours of featureless Atlantic cruise in between.
What can I see during takeoff from Charlotte Douglas International in Charlotte?
During takeoff from Charlotte Douglas International (CLT), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing CLT in the more common south flow, the initial southbound climb puts the western horizon on the right side, offering a brief view of Lake Wylie, the Catawba River, and the low, distant blue-tinted ridgelines of the Blue Ridge foothills. It's a mild view over rolling Piedmont terrain rather than anything dramatic. Notable sights include: Lake Wylie, Catawba River, Charlotte suburbs, distant Blue Ridge foothills.
What can I see when landing at Charles De Gaulle in Paris?
When landing at Charles De Gaulle (CDG), sit on the Left side for the best views. In the prevailing westerly (27) configuration, aircraft arriving from the northwest are vectored south of the field before turning onto final approach heading west, putting Paris to the left side. Passengers get a distant but genuine view of the Paris skyline and the Seine winding through the city before the plane lines up on the runway. Notable sights include: Paris skyline (La Défense towers, Eiffel Tower silhouette), Seine River, Île-de-France farmland patchwork.
How long is the flight from Charlotte to Paris?
The flight from Charlotte Douglas International (CLT) to Charles De Gaulle (CDG) takes 7h 55m.
What does the Charlotte to Paris flight path pass over?
Open North Atlantic Ocean between Newfoundland and Ireland, with no land visible for several hours of cruise