While the takeoff offers Paris views, the landing approach over the St. Lawrence River and Montreal's distinctive island geography is more visually dramatic and geographically significant. The river and surrounding terrain create a more memorable final descent.
Flown ORY to YUL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Paris to Montreal is 3,433 miles (5,525 km), a flight of about 7 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean for roughly 4.5 hours. Notable geographic transitions include: the Newfoundland coast and Grand Banks (eastern approach to North America), the Gulf of St. Lawrence (widening river system), and the transition from maritime terrain to the Canadian Shield's forests and lakes in Quebec. The Laurentian Mountains become increasingly visible as you approach Montreal from the east.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORY
LEFTLeft side offers views of central Paris and the Seine's meanders through the city during the initial climb-out. You'll see the urban sprawl and the river's distinctive loops before heading northwest over the Île-de-France region.
Landing at YUL
RIGHTRight side provides excellent views of the St. Lawrence River and Montreal's geography during approach. You'll see the river's wide expanse, the island of Montreal itself, and the surrounding terrain that makes the city's location distinctive.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Orly (ORY) to Montreal International Dorval (YUL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Paris to Montreal. While the takeoff offers Paris views, the landing approach over the St. Lawrence River and Montreal's distinctive island geography is more visually dramatic and geographically significant. The river and surrounding terrain create a more memorable final descent.
What can I see during takeoff from Orly in Paris?
During takeoff from Orly (ORY), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of central Paris and the Seine's meanders through the city during the initial climb-out. You'll see the urban sprawl and the river's distinctive loops before heading northwest over the Île-de-France region. Notable sights include: Seine River (winding through Paris), Île-de-France agricultural plains, Notre-Dame Cathedral area (small but identifiable), Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes (large green spaces).
What can I see when landing at Montreal International Dorval in Montreal?
When landing at Montreal International Dorval (YUL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides excellent views of the St. Lawrence River and Montreal's geography during approach. You'll see the river's wide expanse, the island of Montreal itself, and the surrounding terrain that makes the city's location distinctive. Notable sights include: St. Lawrence River (broad and prominent), Montreal Island (urban core surrounded by water), Laurentian Mountains (low ridges to the north), Lake Saint-Louis (western approach).
How long is the flight from Paris to Montreal?
The flight from Orly (ORY) to Montreal International Dorval (YUL) takes about 7 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 3,433 miles (5,525 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Paris to Montreal flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean for roughly 4.5 hours. Notable geographic transitions include: the Newfoundland coast and Grand Banks (eastern approach to North America), the Gulf of St. Lawrence (widening river system), and the transition from maritime terrain to the Canadian Shield's forests and lakes in Quebec. The Laurentian Mountains become increasingly visible as you approach Montreal from the east.