While takeoff offers excellent Wasatch views, the landing approach over the Alps and descent into Switzerland provides more sustained and dramatic scenery. The right side captures the transition from high mountains to the Swiss landscape, making it the stronger choice for the full journey.
Flown SLC to ZRH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Salt Lake City to Zurich is 5,335 miles (8,586 km), a flight of about 11 hours.
The flight path crosses the North Atlantic, passing south of Greenland and Iceland (not typically visible), then over the UK and North Sea. Over continental Europe, the aircraft passes over or near the Pennines (UK), the Rhine Valley (Germany/France border region), and approaches the Alps from the north. The Jura Mountains and Swiss plateau become visible during the final descent phase into Zurich.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from SLC
LEFTLeft side offers immediate views of the Wasatch Range as the aircraft climbs northeastward from SLC. The mountains dominate the eastern horizon during initial climb, providing dramatic relief and snow-capped peaks depending on season.
Landing at ZRH
RIGHTRight side captures the approach over the Alps during descent into Zurich. The aircraft typically descends from the north or northeast, making the right side ideal for viewing the Alpine peaks and the Jura Mountains as they transition toward the Swiss plateau and Lake Zurich.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Salt Lake City International (SLC) to Zurich (ZRH)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Salt Lake City to Zurich. While takeoff offers excellent Wasatch views, the landing approach over the Alps and descent into Switzerland provides more sustained and dramatic scenery. The right side captures the transition from high mountains to the Swiss landscape, making it the stronger choice for the full journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Salt Lake City International in Salt Lake City?
During takeoff from Salt Lake City International (SLC), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers immediate views of the Wasatch Range as the aircraft climbs northeastward from SLC. The mountains dominate the eastern horizon during initial climb, providing dramatic relief and snow-capped peaks depending on season. Notable sights include: Wasatch Range (directly east), Great Salt Lake (northwest, visible as the aircraft banks), Salt Lake Valley floor (beneath), Antelope Island (in the lake, visible from left side).
What can I see when landing at Zurich in Zurich?
When landing at Zurich (ZRH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures the approach over the Alps during descent into Zurich. The aircraft typically descends from the north or northeast, making the right side ideal for viewing the Alpine peaks and the Jura Mountains as they transition toward the Swiss plateau and Lake Zurich. Notable sights include: The Alps (eastern horizon, including peaks like Säntis region), Jura Mountains (middle distance, northwest-facing slopes), Lake Zurich (visible during final approach), Swiss plateau and pre-Alpine foothills (foreground during descent).
How long is the flight from Salt Lake City to Zurich?
The flight from Salt Lake City International (SLC) to Zurich (ZRH) takes about 11 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 5,335 miles (8,586 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Salt Lake City to Zurich flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Atlantic, passing south of Greenland and Iceland (not typically visible), then over the UK and North Sea. Over continental Europe, the aircraft passes over or near the Pennines (UK), the Rhine Valley (Germany/France border region), and approaches the Alps from the north. The Jura Mountains and Swiss plateau become visible during the final descent phase into Zurich.