Loading map...
AUS → CLT
Which side of the plane to sit from Austin Bergstrom International Airport (Austin) to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Charlotte)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most iconic views, including a clear look at the Mississippi River near Memphis and superior vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains during the descent into North Carolina.
Mississippi River
A spectacular crossing of the continent's largest river system, often visible near the Memphis corridor.
Great Smoky Mountains
Dramatic views of the hazy blue peaks and dense forests as the flight crosses into the Appalachian range.
Memphis Skyline
If the flight path trends slightly north, the city of Memphis and its distinct pyramid are visible.
Pickwick Lake
A large, sprawling reservoir at the intersection of Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi.
Pisgah National Forest
Dense, mountainous canopy coverage that signals the final approach into the Piedmont region.
Sit on the left for early morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side provides the best perspective of the Appalachian ridges during the descent. Look for the Mississippi River approximately 60-70 minutes after takeoff.
Mississippi Delta
Views of the vast, flat agricultural landscapes and fertile plains of the northern Delta region.
Lake Norman
Often visible during the final approach into CLT, showing miles of residential shoreline and boat docks.
Piedmont Farmland
The rolling red clay hills and patchwork fields of the Carolinas as you descend.
Birmingham Distant View
On clear days, the industrial landscape of northern Alabama can be seen to the south.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun. It offers a great view of Lake Norman if the aircraft approaches CLT from the north. Watch for the transition from the flat Delta to the rolling Piedmont hills.
Distance: 1,659 km (1,031 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 13 min
Departure: AUS (30.194499969482425, -97.6698989868164)
Arrival: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.