The outbound climb from Hanoi offers more dramatic and distinctive scenery—the Red River Delta's geometric agricultural patterns and karst limestone formations are visually striking. While the Paris approach is pleasant, the takeoff views are more uniquely memorable.
Flown HAN to CDG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Hanoi to Paris is 5,690 miles (9,157 km), a flight of about 13 hours.
The flight path typically crosses the Himalayas or Hindu Kush mountains (depending on routing through Afghanistan/Pakistan or further south through India), the Arabian Peninsula's desert landscape, the Persian Gulf, and eventually the Caucasus or Mediterranean regions before reaching European airspace. The Caspian Sea may be visible on some routing variations. Over Central Asia, the Tian Shan and Pamir mountain ranges appear as significant features if the northern routing is used.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from HAN
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Red River Delta and Hanoi's urban sprawl as the aircraft climbs northwestward. The delta's distinctive patchwork of rice paddies and waterways is clearly visible during the initial climb-out phase.
Landing at CDG
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during descent into CDG. The approach typically crosses the Seine River valley and brings views of the Île-de-France region's forests, the Seine's meanders, and Paris's urban periphery before final approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Noibai International (HAN) to Charles De Gaulle (CDG)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Hanoi to Paris. The outbound climb from Hanoi offers more dramatic and distinctive scenery—the Red River Delta's geometric agricultural patterns and karst limestone formations are visually striking. While the Paris approach is pleasant, the takeoff views are more uniquely memorable.
What can I see during takeoff from Noibai International in Hanoi?
During takeoff from Noibai International (HAN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Red River Delta and Hanoi's urban sprawl as the aircraft climbs northwestward. The delta's distinctive patchwork of rice paddies and waterways is clearly visible during the initial climb-out phase. Notable sights include: Red River Delta (agricultural grid pattern), Hanoi city center (dense urban core to the south), Gulf of Tonkin coastline (northeastern horizon), limestone karst formations beginning to appear inland.
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. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into CDG. The approach typically crosses the Seine River valley and brings views of the Île-de-France region's forests, the Seine's meanders, and Paris's urban periphery before final approach. Notable sights include: Seine River and its distinctive meanders, Fontainebleau Forest (large forested area southeast of Paris), Paris metropolitan sprawl and ring roads, Champagne region's rolling agricultural landscape.
How long is the flight from Hanoi to Paris?
The flight from Noibai International (HAN) to Charles De Gaulle (CDG) takes about 13 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 5,690 miles (9,157 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Hanoi to Paris flight path pass over?
The flight path typically crosses the Himalayas or Hindu Kush mountains (depending on routing through Afghanistan/Pakistan or further south through India), the Arabian Peninsula's desert landscape, the Persian Gulf, and eventually the Caucasus or Mediterranean regions before reaching European airspace. The Caspian Sea may be visible on some routing variations. Over Central Asia, the Tian Shan and Pamir mountain ranges appear as significant features if the northern routing is used.