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CVG destination photo
RIC destination photo

CVGRIC

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a more direct view of the dramatic Appalachian ridges and the winding James River as you descend into Virginia.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏛️

Charleston Capitol

The distinct gold-domed West Virginia State Capitol building is often visible near the Kanawha River.

🏔️

Blue Ridge Mountains

The iconic, haze-covered peaks of the Blue Ridge offer some of the most rugged terrain on the East Coast.

🏞️

New River Gorge

The deep canyons and white-water sections of the New River as it cuts through the West Virginia wilderness.

🌊

James River

The historic James River guides the plane's final approach into the Richmond area.

🌲

Piedmont Forests

Dense pine and hardwood forests characterizing the rolling hills of central Virginia.

Look for the Kanawha River halfway through the flight to spot Charleston. For the best photography of the Blue Ridge Mountains, choose a morning flight to have the sun behind you, highlighting the mountain contours.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Cincinnati Skyline

Clear views of downtown Cincinnati and the Great American Ball Park shortly after takeoff from CVG.

🌊

Ohio River

The winding river border between Ohio and Kentucky serves as a scenic guide during the initial climb.

⛰️

Allegheny Plateaus

The northern reaches of the Appalachian range featuring deeply dissected plateaus and steep valleys.

🌾

Shenandoah Valley

The lush, flat agricultural expanse of the Shenandoah Valley nestled between mountain ridges.

Sit on this side for the best chance to see the Cincinnati skyline if the wind requires an eastbound departure. In autumn, the northern aspects of the mountains show vibrant foliage earlier than the southern slopes.

Top Activities in Richmond
Route Information

Distance: 664 km (413 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 6 min

Departure: CVG (39.0488014221, -84.6678009033)

Arrival: RIC (37.50519943237305, -77.3197021484375)

Route Type: Domestic

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