About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Schwechat (VIE) to Saint Exupery (LYS)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Vienna to Lyon. The right side captures the most dramatic geography: Alpine foothills during departure, then the Jura Mountains and Lake Geneva region during cruise, and finally the Rhône Valley approach. Left seats miss the Alpine scenery on departure and offer less distinctive views during the cruise phase.
What can I see during takeoff from Schwechat in Vienna?
During takeoff from Schwechat (VIE), sit on the Right side for the best views. VIE typically departs eastbound (Runway 11L/11R) or westbound (Runway 29L/29R). For westbound departures toward Lyon, a right-side seat captures the Danube River valley and the Alpine foothills as you climb out. The Carpathian Mountains rim the eastern horizon behind you, while the Vienna Basin spreads below. Notable sights include: Danube River (visible as a silvery thread through the Vienna Basin), Vienna city center (recognizable urban grid to the south), Alpine foothills rising to the southwest, Carpathian Mountains on the distant eastern horizon.
What can I see when landing at Saint Exupery in Lyon?
When landing at Saint Exupery (LYS), sit on the Left side for the best views. Lyon typically lands on Runway 36L/36R (northbound) or 18L/18R (southbound). For a northbound approach, the left seat offers views of the Rhône Valley and the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers as you descend. The Massif Central rises to the west, and the Alps are visible to the southeast during descent. Notable sights include: Rhône River (wide, distinctive waterway), Saône River (joining from the north), Lyon city center (urban area at the confluence), Massif Central foothills (western ridgeline).
How long is the flight from Vienna to Lyon?
The flight from Schwechat (VIE) to Saint Exupery (LYS) takes Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Vienna to Lyon flight path pass over?
Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) sits roughly 90 minutes into the flight, visible from either side depending on exact routing. The Jura Mountains form a distinctive north-south ridge between Geneva and Lyon. The Rhône Valley narrows as you approach Lyon, with the Massif Central to the west and the Alps to the southeast creating a natural funnel for the descent.