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BWI → SDF
Which side of the plane to sit from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (Baltimore) to Louisville International Standiford Field (Louisville)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the linear ridges of the Appalachian Mountains and potential distant glimpses of the Washington D.C. metropolitan area shortly after departure.
D.C. Perimeter
On clear days, look south shortly after takeoff to spot the distant Washington Monument and the dense urban layout of the capital.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Experience the striking geological formations of the Shenandoah Valley and the long, parallel ridges of the Appalachians.
Kentucky Bluegrass
As you descend into Louisville, view the rolling green hills and sprawling horse farms characteristic of central Kentucky.
Monongahela Forest
Fly over the dense, high-altitude hardwood forests of eastern West Virginia, often featuring vibrant colors in autumn.
Sit behind the wing for an unobstructed view of the Appalachian ridge lines. Afternoon flights provide excellent lighting for the Shenandoah Valley, while sunset flights offer a dramatic orange glow over the Kentucky horse country.
Baltimore Skyline
Immediately after departure from BWI, the right side often gets a sweeping view of the Inner Harbor and downtown Baltimore.
Potomac River Confluence
Look for the historic intersection of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers near Harpers Ferry, West Virginia.
Ohio River Valley
Follow the winding path of the massive Ohio River as it snakes along the border of Indiana and Kentucky during the final approach.
Louisville Cityscape
If the flight approaches from the north, you will have a direct view of the downtown bridges and the KFC Yum! Center.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun. Keep your camera ready immediately after takeoff for the Baltimore city views, which appear quickly depending on the runway heading.
Distance: 795 km (494 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 20 min
Departure: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)
Arrival: SDF (38.1744, -85.736)
Route Type: Domestic
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