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CLT destination photo
AVL destination photo

CLTAVL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the high-altitude peaks of the Black Mountains, including Mount Mitchell, and the dramatic Linville Gorge area during the ascent into the Blue Ridge.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🚤

Lake Norman

The massive 'Inland Sea' of North Carolina is visible shortly after takeoff on northern departures.

🏔️

Mount Mitchell

The highest peak in the Eastern United States, rising prominently at 6,684 feet.

📐

Linville Gorge

The 'Grand Canyon of the East' with its distinctive peaks like Table Rock and Hawksbill.

🌲

Pisgah National Forest

A vast, continuous canopy of dense forest stretching toward the Tennessee border.

🏙️

Downtown Asheville

Views of the city's unique Art Deco architecture and the Grove Park Inn during descent.

The right side is ideal for morning flights when the sun lights up the Blue Ridge Escarpment. Watch closely for the dramatic transition from the flat Piedmont plateau to the steep mountain ridges; it happens very quickly on this short hop. Mount Mitchell is most visible approximately 15 minutes before landing.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Charlotte Skyline

Aerial view of the 'Queen City' skyscrapers immediately after departure from CLT.

⛰️

South Mountains

The rugged terrain of South Mountains State Park marks the first significant elevation gain.

🌊

Lake Lure

The famous winding lake and filming location for 'Dirty Dancing' tucked into the mountains.

🪨

Chimney Rock

The iconic granite monolith standing tall above the Hickory Nut Gorge.

🏰

Biltmore Estate

If landing from the south, catch a glimpse of the historic Vanderbilt mansion and gardens.

Sit on the left for late afternoon flights to avoid direct sun glare. Look for the Biltmore Estate as the plane aligns with the French Broad River valley for its final approach into AVL. In autumn, this side provides excellent views of the southern hardwood foliage.

Top Activities in Asheville
Route Information

Distance: 147 km (91 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 15 min

Departure: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)

Arrival: AVL (35.43619918823242, -82.54180145263672)

Route Type: Domestic

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