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ALB → CLT
Which side of the plane to sit from Albany International Airport (Albany) to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Charlotte)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the Appalachian chain, including the Catskills, Poconos, and the Shenandoah Valley, providing more dramatic topography than the eastern side.
Catskill Mountains
Immediate views of the rugged, forested peaks of the Catskills shortly after leaving Albany.
Pocono Mountains
The rolling hills and dense forests of northeastern Pennsylvania are prominently visible.
Shenandoah National Park
Stunning vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the iconic Skyline Drive through Virginia.
Appalachian Trail
The flight path parallels the historic hiking trail, crossing several major ridgelines.
Charlotte Skyline
If the flight approaches CLT from the north, the right side often gets a direct view of Uptown Charlotte.
The right side is best for late afternoon flights to catch the sunset over the mountains. During autumn, this side offers a spectacular view of the changing fall foliage across the Appalachian range. For the best view of the Charlotte skyline on arrival, check if the wind is blowing from the south, as this usually triggers a northern approach.
Hudson River Valley
Scenic views of the Hudson River winding south toward New York City shortly after departure.
Susquehanna River
Wide aerial perspectives of the river as it flows through the heart of Pennsylvania.
Mid-Atlantic Corridor
Distances views of the urban sprawl between Philadelphia and Baltimore on clear days.
Lake Norman
Expansive views of North Carolina's largest man-made lake during the descent into Charlotte.
Sit behind the wing to capture the Hudson River during takeoff. Morning flights on the left side offer excellent lighting without the harsh direct glare of the sun, making it ideal for photography of the river systems.
Distance: 1,040 km (646 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 23 min
Departure: ALB (42.74829864501953, -73.80169677734375)
Arrival: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)
Route Type: Domestic
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