While the takeoff offers Thames Estuary views on the right, the landing approach provides superior scenery with the Seine River's dramatic meanders and Paris's urban geography clearly visible. The left side captures the most visually distinctive portion of this short route.
Flown STN to CDG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
London to Paris is 223 miles (359 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
English Channel crossing with Kent and Sussex coasts visible on departure; Normandy coastline and Seine estuary on approach; the relatively short flight path means limited midpoint features—most of the route is either over water or the immediate approach to Paris.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from STN
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Thames Estuary and North Sea coastline as the aircraft climbs northeast from Stansted. You'll see the distinctive water body and Essex marshlands spread below before turning toward the continent.
Landing at CDG
LEFTLeft-side seats offer the best views during descent into CDG. You'll see the Seine River winding through the Île-de-France region, the distinctive geometry of Paris's urban sprawl, and the flat agricultural plains surrounding the city as you approach from the northwest.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Stansted (STN) to Charles De Gaulle (CDG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Paris. While the takeoff offers Thames Estuary views on the right, the landing approach provides superior scenery with the Seine River's dramatic meanders and Paris's urban geography clearly visible. The left side captures the most visually distinctive portion of this short route.
What can I see during takeoff from Stansted in London?
During takeoff from Stansted (STN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Thames Estuary and North Sea coastline as the aircraft climbs northeast from Stansted. You'll see the distinctive water body and Essex marshlands spread below before turning toward the continent. Notable sights include: Thames Estuary, North Sea coast, Essex wetlands and agricultural patchwork, Colchester area inland.
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. Left-side seats offer the best views during descent into CDG. You'll see the Seine River winding through the Île-de-France region, the distinctive geometry of Paris's urban sprawl, and the flat agricultural plains surrounding the city as you approach from the northwest. Notable sights include: Seine River and its meanders, Paris urban area with visible street grid, Île-de-France agricultural plains, Roissy-Charles de Gaulle airport complex.
How long is the flight from London to Paris?
The flight from Stansted (STN) to Charles De Gaulle (CDG) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 223 miles (359 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the London to Paris flight path pass over?
English Channel crossing with Kent and Sussex coasts visible on departure; Normandy coastline and Seine estuary on approach; the relatively short flight path means limited midpoint features—most of the route is either over water or the immediate approach to Paris.