Loading map...
CMH → CLT
Which side of the plane to sit from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (Columbus) to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Charlotte)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior perspective of the Appalachian ridges and an iconic view of Lake Norman and the Charlotte skyline during the descent.
Downtown Columbus
Aerial view of the Scioto Mile and Ohio Statehouse shortly after departure from CMH.
Monongahela National Forest
Dense, rolling forest canopies and high ridges of the West Virginia highlands.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The distinctive blue-hued peaks visible as the flight transitions into North Carolina.
Lake Norman
The massive, branching shoreline of North Carolina's largest man-made lake on the final approach.
Uptown Charlotte
A stunning view of the Charlotte skyscrapers when landing from the north or circling the city.
Sit on the left for the most dramatic approach into CLT. Book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the green mountains of West Virginia and the water features of the Piedmont. During summer, look for late-afternoon thunderstorms building over the mountains.
Ohio River Valley
The winding river border between Ohio and West Virginia near the Parkersburg area.
Appalachian Plateaus
Deeply dissected plateau landscapes and rugged mining regions of southern West Virginia.
New River Gorge Area
Views of the ancient river system and the surrounding national park wilderness.
Great Smoky Mountains
In the far distance, the highest peaks of the Smokies may be visible on clear days.
The right side is excellent for viewing the rugged, less-populated areas of the Appalachian plateau. It is the better side for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. Keep an eye out for the distinct, parallel ridges that define the geography of the eastern United States.
Distance: 559 km (347 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 56 min
Departure: CMH (39.998001, -82.891899)
Arrival: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.