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ATL → RDU
Which side of the plane to sit from Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta) to Raleigh Durham International Airport (Raleigh-durham)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers superior views of the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Lake Lanier, and the scenic reservoirs of the Piedmont region before descending over Jordan Lake into the Research Triangle.
Search flights from ATL to RDU
Lake Lanier
Expansive views of Georgia's largest recreational lake with its winding shoreline just after departing Atlanta.
Blue Ridge Foothills
Distant but clear silhouettes of the southern Appalachian range visible to the northwest during the cruise phase.
Greenville-Spartanburg
Aerial perspective of the sprawling Upstate South Carolina metropolitan corridor and the GSP airport.
Uwharrie National Forest
A dense green expanse of one of the oldest mountain ranges in North America located in central North Carolina.
Jordan Lake
A massive reservoir that serves as a primary visual landmark during the final approach into RDU.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the Blue Ridge Mountains on the horizon. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the landscape and minimizing glare. Watch for the distinct 'Y' shape of Lake Lanier within the first 10 minutes of flight.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesAtlanta Skyline
A stunning view of the Downtown, Midtown, and Buckhead skyscrapers depending on the takeoff runway configuration.
Stone Mountain
The world's largest piece of exposed granite, visible as a massive grey dome east of the Atlanta city limits.
Charlotte Metro Area
The flight path often passes near the Queen City, offering views of the skyline and Bank of America Stadium.
The Sandhills
The unique sandy geography and golf courses of the Pinehurst region visible south of the flight path.
Downtown Raleigh
The skyline of North Carolina's capital city is often visible to the south during the landing sequence.
The right side is best for iconic landmarks like Stone Mountain shortly after takeoff. On evening flights, this side catches the sunset, though glare can be intense. Keep an eye out for the distinct grid patterns of the numerous golf courses near Pinehurst as you enter North Carolina.
Book Hotels in Raleigh-durhamDistance: 572 km (355 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 57 min
Departure: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)
Arrival: RDU (35.877601623535156, -78.7874984741211)
Route Type: Domestic
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