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CVG β XNA
Which side of the plane to sit from Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International Airport (Cincinnati) to Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport (Bentonville)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for urban landmarks, including the Cincinnati skyline immediately after takeoff and the St. Louis Gateway Arch mid-flight.
Cincinnati Skyline
Outstanding views of the 'Queen City' and the riverfront stadiums shortly after departure from CVG.
Gateway Arch
Look north toward St. Louis to see the gleaming silver Arch standing prominently on the Mississippi riverfront.
St. Louis Metro
A comprehensive view of the urban sprawl, including Forest Park and the surrounding metropolitan grid.
Missouri River Meanders
The winding, silt-heavy path of the Missouri River creates intricate patterns across the central Missouri plains.
Lake of the Ozarks
The massive, dragon-shaped reservoir is often visible to the south-southwest during the descent phase.
Choose the right side for the best architectural views. To spot the Gateway Arch, look toward the horizon roughly halfway through the flight; it will appear as a tiny, reflective silver loop. Evening flights on this side offer beautiful sunset colors over the Missouri plains.
Ohio River Valley
Witness the dramatic bends of the Ohio River as the flight tracks southwest from Cincinnati.
Shawnee National Forest
Dense green canopies of southern Illinois provide a lush landscape during the mid-portion of the flight.
Mississippi-Ohio Confluence
On clear days, see the distinct point where the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers meet near Cairo.
Ozark Plateau
Deeply dissected plateaus and rolling hills signify the entry into the Missouri and Arkansas border region.
The left side is preferable for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun. Keep a sharp eye out for the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers roughly 45 minutes into the flight, which is a significant geographic landmark visible from high altitudes.
Distance: 902 km (560 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 30 min
Departure: CVG (39.0488014221, -84.6678009033)
Arrival: XNA (36.281898, -94.306801)
Route Type: Domestic
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