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IAH destination photo
TYS destination photo

IAHTYS

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers the most dramatic scenery, particularly during the descent into Knoxville where passengers are treated to panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the southern Appalachian foothills.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🚢

Port of Houston

Look down at the massive industrial infrastructure of one of the world's busiest ship channels.

🌿

Deep South Wilderness

Aerial perspectives of the endless green forests across central Mississippi and Alabama.

⛰️

Appalachian Foothills

The first sightings of the ancient mountain range as the terrain begins to ripple upward.

🌫️

Great Smoky Mountains

Incredible vistas of the blue-misted peaks of the national park during the final approach.

🛶

Fort Loudoun Lake

Beautiful views of the winding Tennessee River reservoirs just before touching down at TYS.

The right side is the clear winner for mountain lovers. Aim for a seat behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Smoky Mountains during descent. Morning flights are particularly beautiful as the sun illuminates the mist in the valleys. In autumn, this side provides the best view of the changing leaf colors across the ridges.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🌆

Houston Skyline

Catch a glimpse of the sprawling downtown skyscrapers and the Buffalo Bayou shortly after takeoff.

🌲

Sam Houston Forest

Fly over the dense canopy of the East Texas Piney Woods as you reach cruising altitude.

〰️

Mississippi River

Observe the massive, winding oxbow lakes and silver curves of the Mississippi River near the border.

🏗️

North Alabama Landscapes

View the industrial and residential outskirts of cities like Huntsville and the Tennessee River valley.

🚜

Cumberland Plateau

Watch the transition from flat plains to the rugged, forested tabletop landscapes of central Tennessee.

Sit on the left for better views of the Mississippi River's complex bends. For late afternoon flights, be prepared for significant sun glare; keep your window shade partially closed until the sun drops lower. This side is often better for viewing the Knoxville city center if the approach comes from the west.

Top Activities in Knoxville
Route Information

Distance: 1,241 km (771 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 39 min

Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)

Arrival: TYS (35.81100082, -83.99400329999999)

Route Type: Domestic

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