The right side delivers the dramatic Guanacaste volcanic chain on departure, then tracks the Caribbean coast of Central America northward, and later offers views of the Atlantic and European coastline on approach. The volcanic scenery at takeoff is the single most visually striking moment of the flight and tips the balance to the right side.
Flown LIR to ZRH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Liberia to Zurich is 5,870 miles (9,446 km), a flight of about 12 hours 30 minutes.
Yucatan Peninsula and Gulf of Mexico crossing, Cuba visible as a long narrow island, then the open Atlantic for the majority of the flight, Azores islands possible far below mid-Atlantic, Iberian Peninsula coastline over Portugal and northern Spain, Pyrenees mountains, southern France, and the Jura range before descent into Switzerland
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from LIR
RIGHTLIR's primary runway 07/25 means departures heading east put the Guanacaste volcanic chain — Rincón de la Vieja, Miravalles, and Tenorio — on the right side. These volcanoes rise clearly above the surrounding lowlands and are unmistakable from climb-out altitude.
Landing at ZRH
LEFTZRH's main approach on runway 14 brings aircraft in from the northwest, putting the city of Zurich, Lake Zurich, and the Alps on the left side. You get a clear view of the lake stretching southeast and the snow-capped Alps beyond on final approach.
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 Daniel Oduber Quiros International (LIR) to Zurich (ZRH)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Liberia to Zurich. The right side delivers the dramatic Guanacaste volcanic chain on departure, then tracks the Caribbean coast of Central America northward, and later offers views of the Atlantic and European coastline on approach. The volcanic scenery at takeoff is the single most visually striking moment of the flight and tips the balance to the right side.
What can I see during takeoff from Daniel Oduber Quiros International in Liberia?
During takeoff from Daniel Oduber Quiros International (LIR), sit on the Right side for the best views. LIR's primary runway 07/25 means departures heading east put the Guanacaste volcanic chain — Rincón de la Vieja, Miravalles, and Tenorio — on the right side. These volcanoes rise clearly above the surrounding lowlands and are unmistakable from climb-out altitude. Notable sights include: Rincón de la Vieja volcano (1,916m), Miravalles volcano (2,028m), Lago de Nicaragua visible to the north, Golfo de Papagayo coastline.
What can I see when landing at Zurich in Zurich?
When landing at Zurich (ZRH), sit on the Left side for the best views. ZRH's main approach on runway 14 brings aircraft in from the northwest, putting the city of Zurich, Lake Zurich, and the Alps on the left side. You get a clear view of the lake stretching southeast and the snow-capped Alps beyond on final approach. Notable sights include: Lake Zurich (Zürichsee), Zurich city center, Glarus Alps on the horizon, Uetliberg ridge west of the city.
How long is the flight from Liberia to Zurich?
The flight from Daniel Oduber Quiros International (LIR) to Zurich (ZRH) takes about 12 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,870 miles (9,446 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Liberia to Zurich flight path pass over?
Yucatan Peninsula and Gulf of Mexico crossing, Cuba visible as a long narrow island, then the open Atlantic for the majority of the flight, Azores islands possible far below mid-Atlantic, Iberian Peninsula coastline over Portugal and northern Spain, Pyrenees mountains, southern France, and the Jura range before descent into Switzerland