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AVL destination photo
CLT destination photo

AVLCLT

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic transition from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Piedmont plateau, including the iconic Lake Lure and Chimney Rock, followed by a high-probability view of the Charlotte skyline during the final approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
⛰️

Chimney Rock State Park

The massive 315-foot granite monolith and the surrounding Hickory Nut Gorge are visible in the first 10 minutes.

💧

Lake Lure

The sparkling, mountain-fringed waters where 'Dirty Dancing' was filmed, nestled in the foothills.

🧗

Crowders Mountain

A prominent monadnock that rises sharply from the surrounding flat Piedmont landscape near Gastonia.

🏙️

Uptown Charlotte

Spectacular views of the Bank of America Corporate Center and Duke Energy Center during the descent into CLT.

Choose the right side for the best 'mountain-to-city' transition. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff for Lake Lure. For the best skyline views, late afternoon flights offer the sun at your back, illuminating the Charlotte buildings in a golden hue as you approach from the west.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏔️

The Black Mountains

Visibility of Mount Mitchell, the highest peak in the eastern United States, located just northeast of the flight path.

🛣️

Blue Ridge Parkway

The scenic ribbon of road winding through the high ridges of the Pisgah National Forest shortly after takeoff.

🌲

South Mountains State Park

An isolated mountain range featuring rugged peaks and deep valleys as the terrain begins to flatten.

🏁

Charlotte Motor Speedway

On specific northern approach patterns, the massive racing complex is visible on the far eastern side of the metro area.

Sit on the left for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise over the peaks without direct glare. Look early after takeoff for the highest elevations of the Appalachian chain. If the plane circles north of Charlotte for a southern landing, you will get the primary view of the Uptown skyline.

Top Activities in Charlotte
Route Information

Distance: 147 km (91 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 15 min

Departure: AVL (35.43619918823242, -82.54180145263672)

Arrival: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)

Route Type: Domestic

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