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BWI destination photo
GSP destination photo

BWIGSP

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft offers a front-row seat to the dramatic rise of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the rolling Appalachian range for the duration of the flight.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏛️

Washington D.C.

Depending on the departure path, the National Mall, Potomac River, and the Pentagon are often visible shortly after takeoff.

⛰️

Blue Ridge Mountains

The plane flies parallel to this iconic range, offering continuous views of the blue-hued peaks and valleys.

🌲

Shenandoah National Park

Look for the winding Skyline Drive tracing the crest of the mountains through the deep green forest.

💧

Smith Mountain Lake

A massive, jagged-edged reservoir in Virginia known for its clear water and extensive shoreline.

🏔️

Grandfather Mountain

As you descend toward GSP, the high peaks of Western North Carolina, including the distinctive silhouette of Grandfather Mountain, dominate the window.

The right side is the clear winner for scenery. For the best experience, choose a seat forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the mountains. Afternoon flights provide excellent lighting on the eastern slopes of the Appalachians, though the sun will be on this side of the aircraft.

Left Side Highlights
6.0
🌊

Chesapeake Bay

Upon takeoff from BWI, the vast waters and intricate inlets of the upper bay are visible to the east.

🏙️

Richmond, Virginia

Mid-flight views of Virginia's capital and the James River winding through the urban landscape.

🚜

Piedmont Plateau

A mosaic of agricultural fields and rolling hills spanning the central regions of Virginia and North Carolina.

🏢

Charlotte Skyline

On a clear day, the skyscrapers of Uptown Charlotte appear on the horizon as you approach the South Carolina border.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the afternoon sun. While less mountainous, this side offers better views of the urban corridors and the distant Atlantic coastal plain.

Top Activities in Greenville
Route Information

Distance: 685 km (426 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 9 min

Departure: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)

Arrival: GSP (34.895698547399995, -82.2189025879)

Route Type: Domestic

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