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IAH destination photo
CRW destination photo

IAHCRW

Our Recommendation
7.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a superior perspective of the Houston skyline during departure and the best view of the West Virginia State Capitol and downtown Charleston upon arrival at the scenic hilltop Yeager Airport.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Houston Skyline

Views of the downtown skyscrapers and the sprawling metropolitan area shortly after takeoff from IAH.

🌲

Sam Houston National Forest

Dense pine forests of East Texas visible during the initial climb phase.

🌊

Mississippi River Crossing

A major geographic milestone as the flight crosses the winding river near the Tennessee-Mississippi border.

🐎

Bluegrass Transition

The landscape shifts to the rolling hills and horse country of Kentucky as you head northeast.

🏛️

West Virginia State Capitol

The stunning gold-domed capitol building is often visible on the left during the final approach into Charleston.

For afternoon flights, the left side is preferred to avoid direct sunlight and glare. During the descent into CRW, stay alert for the 'hilltop' landing; the airport was built by leveling mountains, and the left side offers the best views of the valley below.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🐊

Louisiana Bayous

Views of the complex wetland systems and bayous of the northern Gulf Coast region.

💧

Tennessee River

Sightings of the wide Tennessee River as it meanders through the Mid-South.

⛰️

Appalachian Plateau

The terrain becomes significantly more rugged with deep-cut valleys as you enter West Virginia airspace.

🌳

Kanawha State Forest

Extensive canopy views of the dense hardwood forests surrounding the Charleston area.

On morning flights, the right side will experience significant sun exposure. This side is excellent for observing the ridgeline patterns of the Appalachian Mountains, particularly in autumn when the fall foliage creates a vibrant mosaic of colors across the hills.

Top Activities in Charleston
Route Information

Distance: 1,569 km (975 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 6 min

Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)

Arrival: CRW (38.37310028076172, -81.59320068359375)

Route Type: Domestic

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