While takeoff from Papeete favors the right side for volcanic island scenery, the landing approach into Paris from the left provides more consistent visual interest across the longer flight segment. The Seine's meanders and Paris's urban geography offer more sustained viewing than the brief Society Islands departure.
Flight Path
North African coastline (Morocco/Algeria) visible during daylight hours over the Atlantic; Mediterranean coast near southern France during descent; Atlas Mountains visible from altitude during westbound crossing; Sahara Desert visible as tan expanse south of North African coast; European continent gradually becoming visible with increasing detail as aircraft approaches France
Phase by phase
Takeoff from
Landing at
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT) to Charles De Gaulle (CDG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Papeete to Paris. While takeoff from Papeete favors the right side for volcanic island scenery, the landing approach into Paris from the left provides more consistent visual interest across the longer flight segment. The Seine's meanders and Paris's urban geography offer more sustained viewing than the brief Society Islands departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Fa'a'ā International Airport in Papeete?
During takeoff from Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT), sit on the Right side for the best views. Climbing out from Papeete heading northeast, the right side offers views of Moorea's dramatic volcanic peaks and the Society Islands chain. The left side faces open Pacific. Notable sights include: Moorea (volcanic peaks, ~12 miles north), Society Islands archipelago, Coral reef systems surrounding Tahiti, Pacific Ocean horizon.
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. Descending into CDG from the northeast, the left side provides views of the Seine River's meanders through the Île-de-France region and Paris's urban sprawl. The right side faces less distinctive suburban terrain. Notable sights include: Seine River with characteristic loops and bends, Greater Paris metropolitan area (visible as dense urban grid), Île-de-France agricultural patchwork, Charles de Gaulle Airport runways and taxiways.
How long is the flight from Papeete to Paris?
The flight from Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT) to Charles De Gaulle (CDG) takes 19h 15m.
What does the Papeete to Paris flight path pass over?
North African coastline (Morocco/Algeria) visible during daylight hours over the Atlantic; Mediterranean coast near southern France during descent; Atlas Mountains visible from altitude during westbound crossing; Sahara Desert visible as tan expanse south of North African coast; European continent gradually becoming visible with increasing detail as aircraft approaches France