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CLT → MEM
Which side of the plane to sit from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Charlotte) to Memphis International Airport (Memphis)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the highest peaks in the Great Smoky Mountains and the most dramatic perspectives of the Mississippi River during the descent into Memphis.
Search flights from CLT to MEM
Great Smoky Mountains
Aerial views of the highest peaks in the Appalachian range, including Clingmans Dome and the surrounding ridgelines.
Fontana Lake
The emerald-green waters of this deep reservoir tucked into the base of the Smokies.
Tennessee River Bends
Watch the river snake through the landscape as it dips into Alabama before heading back north.
Pickwick Lake
A sprawling reservoir that marks the transition from the rolling hills into the western plains.
Mississippi River Approach
Stunning views of the massive river and the 'M' Bridge as you align for landing at MEM.
Sit on the left for the most consistent scenery. For early morning flights, the sun will be behind you, lighting up the mountains perfectly. During the final 15 minutes of flight, the left side often gets a sweeping view of the Memphis skyline and the iconic Hernando de Soto Bridge.
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Uptown Charlotte
Depending on departure patterns, you may get a clear view of the Bank of America Stadium and CLT's high-rises.
Mount Mitchell
Look north to spot the highest peak in the Eastern United States located in the Black Mountains.
Knoxville Metro
The urban layout of East Tennessee's major hub is often visible against the backdrop of the mountains.
Nashville Basin
On more northern flight paths, the distant lights or cityscape of Nashville can be spotted to the north.
West Tennessee Plains
The transformation of the landscape into vast, flat agricultural fields as you approach the Delta.
The right side is ideal for catching the sunset on late afternoon flights to Memphis. It also provides the best chance to see the distant peaks of the Blue Ridge Parkway area shortly after takeoff. If the plane approaches MEM from the north, you'll have a better view of the northern industrial river bends.
Book Hotels in MemphisDistance: 821 km (510 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min
Departure: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)
Arrival: MEM (35.04240036010742, -89.97669982910156)
Route Type: Domestic
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