Right side scores higher (3.0 vs 2.5) due to superior scenery during both takeoff and landing phases. The Ottawa River valley and Gatineau Hills provide immediate visual interest on departure, while the Seine's dramatic loops and Paris's urban sprawl dominate the approach. Left side offers mostly open terrain and ocean, with limited landmark density across the transatlantic cruise phase.
Flown YRO to CDG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Ottawa to Paris is 3,510 miles (5,648 km), a flight of about 7 hours 15 minutes.
Labrador coast and Davis Strait (sparse, minimal visual interest); Greenland's ice sheet and fjords (if visible through clouds); Iceland's volcanic terrain and coastline; Norwegian Sea; Scottish Highlands and North Sea; English Channel; Seine River valley approaching Paris
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from YRO
RIGHTRight side captures the Ottawa River valley and Gatineau Hills immediately after departure, with the river's distinctive meanders visible during climb-out. Left side faces open terrain with fewer immediate landmarks.
Landing at CDG
RIGHTRight side offers superior views during the approach to CDG. Passengers see the Seine River's major loops through the Île-de-France region, the distinctive geometry of Paris's outer arrondissements, and the airport's runway complex itself during final descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ottawa / Rockcliffe Airport (YRO) to Charles De Gaulle (CDG)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Ottawa to Paris. Right side scores higher (3.0 vs 2.5) due to superior scenery during both takeoff and landing phases. The Ottawa River valley and Gatineau Hills provide immediate visual interest on departure, while the Seine's dramatic loops and Paris's urban sprawl dominate the approach. Left side offers mostly open terrain and ocean, with limited landmark density across the transatlantic cruise phase.
What can I see during takeoff from Ottawa / Rockcliffe Airport in Ottawa?
During takeoff from Ottawa / Rockcliffe Airport (YRO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures the Ottawa River valley and Gatineau Hills immediately after departure, with the river's distinctive meanders visible during climb-out. Left side faces open terrain with fewer immediate landmarks. Notable sights include: Ottawa River, Gatineau Hills, Parliament Hill area, Rideau Canal.
What can I see when landing at Charles De Gaulle in Paris?
When landing at Charles De Gaulle (CDG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers superior views during the approach to CDG. Passengers see the Seine River's major loops through the Île-de-France region, the distinctive geometry of Paris's outer arrondissements, and the airport's runway complex itself during final descent. Notable sights include: Seine River loops, Paris urban sprawl, Île-de-France forests, CDG runway complex.
How long is the flight from Ottawa to Paris?
The flight from Ottawa / Rockcliffe Airport (YRO) to Charles De Gaulle (CDG) takes about 7 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 3,510 miles (5,648 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Ottawa to Paris flight path pass over?
Labrador coast and Davis Strait (sparse, minimal visual interest); Greenland's ice sheet and fjords (if visible through clouds); Iceland's volcanic terrain and coastline; Norwegian Sea; Scottish Highlands and North Sea; English Channel; Seine River valley approaching Paris