About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Heathrow (LHR) to Charles De Gaulle (CDG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Paris. While the right side wins at takeoff for London views, the left side delivers the more dramatic payoff on arrival with Paris spread out below during descent. On a short flight like this, the landing approach view over Paris is the highlight, and the left side also picks up the English Channel crossing and the French coast near Calais during cruise.
What can I see during takeoff from Heathrow in London?
During takeoff from Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Right side for the best views. Heathrow typically departs eastbound on runways 09L/09R, and a right-side seat gives you a clear view south over central London as the aircraft climbs and turns. You'll see the Thames snaking through the city, with the dense urban grid of west and central London spread out below. Notable sights include: River Thames bends through central London, Windsor Castle and Great Park to the southwest, Wembley Stadium arch visible to the north, M25 motorway ring visible as a broad arc.
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. CDG typically lands westbound on runways 26L/26R, meaning the aircraft approaches from the east. A left-side seat faces south and gives you a view over Paris proper as you descend — the city layout, the Seine, and the Eiffel Tower area are all on the left side of the approach track. Notable sights include: Paris city centre with Seine river loops, Eiffel Tower visible as a thin spire in the urban grid, Stade de France in Saint-Denis just north of the city, Marne river valley to the southeast.
How long is the flight from London to Paris?
The flight from Heathrow (LHR) to Charles De Gaulle (CDG) takes Approximately 55 to 75 minutes.
What does the London to Paris flight path pass over?
English Channel crossing between Dover and Calais — visible as a grey-green body of water roughly 21 miles wide at the Strait of Dover. White cliffs of Dover may be visible on departure. Northern French farmland (Pas-de-Calais and Picardy) is flat, heavily agricultural, with a patchwork of large fields. The Somme river valley crosses the route. No significant terrain elevation changes — the entire route is low-lying.