While takeoff slightly favors the right (Paris urban views), the landing experience on the left is substantially more scenic due to the Chaîne des Puys volcanic landscape—a genuine topographic feature with visual drama. The cruise phase over this 90-minute flight offers modest views on both sides (rolling Massif Central terrain), but the landing approach tips the overall balance to the left. Both sides score equally at 2.5 due to the flight's short duration and lack of major mountain ranges or dramatic coastlines, but left's landing advantage makes it the preferred choice.
Flown ORY to CFE? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Paris to Clermont Ferrand is 207 miles (333 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Loire River valley and tributaries, rolling Massif Central foothills with mixed agriculture and forest, scattered small towns and villages, gradual elevation increase toward Auvergne plateau
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORY
RIGHTRight side captures Paris's urban sprawl and the Seine's meanders during initial climb. Left side faces open countryside immediately. Right offers brief but recognizable city scenery before rural transition.
Landing at CFE
LEFTLeft side on approach to runway 26 (westbound landing) reveals the Chaîne des Puys volcanic plateau and surrounding Massif Central terrain. Right side shows only open agricultural plains. The volcanic landscape provides genuine topographic drama absent on the right.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Orly (ORY) to Auvergne (CFE)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Paris to Clermont Ferrand. While takeoff slightly favors the right (Paris urban views), the landing experience on the left is substantially more scenic due to the Chaîne des Puys volcanic landscape—a genuine topographic feature with visual drama. The cruise phase over this 90-minute flight offers modest views on both sides (rolling Massif Central terrain), but the landing approach tips the overall balance to the left. Both sides score equally at 2.5 due to the flight's short duration and lack of major mountain ranges or dramatic coastlines, but left's landing advantage makes it the preferred choice.
What can I see during takeoff from Orly in Paris?
During takeoff from Orly (ORY), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures Paris's urban sprawl and the Seine's meanders during initial climb. Left side faces open countryside immediately. Right offers brief but recognizable city scenery before rural transition. Notable sights include: Seine River loops, Paris metropolitan area sprawl, Orly airport complex itself, suburban ring roads radiating outward.
What can I see when landing at Auvergne in Clermont Ferrand?
When landing at Auvergne (CFE), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side on approach to runway 26 (westbound landing) reveals the Chaîne des Puys volcanic plateau and surrounding Massif Central terrain. Right side shows only open agricultural plains. The volcanic landscape provides genuine topographic drama absent on the right. Notable sights include: Chaîne des Puys volcanic ridge, Puy de Dôme peak, Clermont-Ferrand city nestled in the valley, surrounding Massif Central foothills.
How long is the flight from Paris to Clermont Ferrand?
The flight from Orly (ORY) to Auvergne (CFE) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 207 miles (333 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Paris to Clermont Ferrand flight path pass over?
Loire River valley and tributaries, rolling Massif Central foothills with mixed agriculture and forest, scattered small towns and villages, gradual elevation increase toward Auvergne plateau