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CLT → PNS
Which side of the plane to sit from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Charlotte) to Pensacola Regional Airport (Pensacola)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer lush southern landscapes, the right side provides a superior view of the Gulf Coast coastline and the emerald waters of the Florida Panhandle during the descent.
Atlanta Outskirts
Views of the sprawling Atlanta metro area and occasionally Hartsfield-Jackson airport in the distance.
Alabama River
Watch the dramatic, serpentine bends of the Alabama River as it flows toward the coast.
Mobile Bay
On clear days, the large estuary and industrial port of Mobile, Alabama are visible to the west.
Santa Rosa Island
Stunning views of the narrow barrier island and its famous white quartz sand beaches.
Gulf of Mexico
Expansive views of the turquoise Gulf waters as the aircraft maneuvers for landing.
Choose the right side for afternoon flights to keep the sun behind you, providing better lighting for photography. The highlight of this route is the approach into PNS; the right side usually gets a sweeping view of the Pensacola Beach coastline before the final turn north into the airport.
Uptown Charlotte
Immediate views of the Charlotte skyline and Bank of America Stadium shortly after takeoff.
Sumter National Forest
Expansive views of the dense pine forests and rolling hills of South Carolina.
Lake Lanier
A massive reservoir in northern Georgia known for its winding shoreline and recreation.
Talladega National Forest
Fly over the southern tip of the Appalachian mountains in eastern Alabama.
Escambia River
The winding river delta and wetlands just north of Pensacola Bay during final approach.
The left side is excellent for early morning flights to see the sunrise over the Atlantic coastal plain in the distance. Be aware that the sun will be on this side for the duration of most midday flights, which may require closing the window shade to avoid glare.
Distance: 786 km (488 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 19 min
Departure: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)
Arrival: PNS (30.473400115967003, -87.18659973144501)
Route Type: Domestic
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