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ATL → FSM
Which side of the plane to sit from Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta) to Fort Smith Regional Airport (Fort Smith)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more diverse landscape, featuring clear views of the Atlanta skyline upon departure, the urban sprawl of Little Rock, and the winding path of the Arkansas River leading into Fort Smith.
Atlanta Skyline
Excellent views of Downtown, Midtown, and the Mercedes-Benz Stadium shortly after departure from ATL.
Lake Guntersville
A massive reservoir on the Tennessee River in northern Alabama known for its winding shorelines.
Little Rock Metro
Clear sightlines of the Arkansas State Capitol and the downtown skyline along the riverfront.
Pinnacle Mountain
A distinctive cone-shaped peak located just west of Little Rock that marks the start of the Ouachita Mountains.
Arkansas River Valley
The plane often tracks parallel to this historic waterway during the final descent into Fort Smith.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the Atlanta skyline during a westbound takeoff. In the afternoon, the sun will be on this side, so keep your window shade ready, but the sunset views over the Arkansas River can be spectacular.
Bankhead National Forest
Vast stretches of deep green deciduous forest covering the Cumberland Plateau in Alabama.
Pickwick Lake
The scenic meeting point of Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee along the Tennessee River.
Ozark National Forest
Rugged terrain and dense canopy of the southern Ozarks visible as you cross into western Arkansas.
Boston Mountains
The highest segment of the Ozark Plateau, offering deep valleys and high ridges, especially vibrant in autumn.
Fort Smith Historic Site
A glimpse of the historic downtown area and the frontier fort site just before touching down.
Choose the right side for the most scenic natural views, particularly the Ozark National Forest. This side is better for mid-day flights to avoid direct glare from the sun, and it offers better views of the rugged mountainous terrain of northern Arkansas.
Distance: 930 km (578 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 33 min
Departure: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)
Arrival: FSM (35.33660125732422, -94.36740112304688)
Route Type: Domestic
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