While takeoff offers moorland views, the landing descent provides superior scenery: the Rhône Valley, Massif Central foothills, and distant Alpine peaks create a more dramatic and geographically diverse visual experience.
Flown MAN to LYS? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Manchester to Lyon is 621 miles (1,000 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
English Channel crossing (visible as blue water and French coastline near Normandy), Seine Valley (river valley visible during descent into France), Burgundy plateau (elevated terrain with forests and agricultural land in central France)
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpeg?width=600)
.jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MAN
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Pennines and Peak District as the aircraft climbs southeastward out of Manchester. These moorland ridges are clearly visible from 8,000–15,000 feet during the initial climb phase.
Landing at LYS
LEFTLeft-side seats offer views of the Rhône Valley and the Alps as the aircraft descends toward Lyon from the north. The valley floor and distant Alpine peaks are striking during the final approach phase.
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 Manchester (MAN) to Saint Exupery (LYS)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Manchester to Lyon. While takeoff offers moorland views, the landing descent provides superior scenery: the Rhône Valley, Massif Central foothills, and distant Alpine peaks create a more dramatic and geographically diverse visual experience.
What can I see during takeoff from Manchester in Manchester?
During takeoff from Manchester (MAN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Pennines and Peak District as the aircraft climbs southeastward out of Manchester. These moorland ridges are clearly visible from 8,000–15,000 feet during the initial climb phase. Notable sights include: Pennines (moorland ridge running south), Peak District (elevated terrain), Manchester conurbation (urban sprawl below), Cheshire Plain (flat terrain to the southwest).
What can I see when landing at Saint Exupery in Lyon?
When landing at Saint Exupery (LYS), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views of the Rhône Valley and the Alps as the aircraft descends toward Lyon from the north. The valley floor and distant Alpine peaks are striking during the final approach phase. Notable sights include: Rhône Valley (broad river valley), French Alps (distant snow-capped peaks on horizon), Massif Central foothills (elevated terrain to the west), Lyon urban area (city sprawl in valley floor).
How long is the flight from Manchester to Lyon?
The flight from Manchester (MAN) to Saint Exupery (LYS) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 621 miles (1,000 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Manchester to Lyon flight path pass over?
English Channel crossing (visible as blue water and French coastline near Normandy), Seine Valley (river valley visible during descent into France), Burgundy plateau (elevated terrain with forests and agricultural land in central France)