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ILM → CLT
Which side of the plane to sit from Wilmington International Airport (Wilmington) to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Charlotte)?
Right Side of the Plane
While the flight is short, the right side offers the most consistent views of urban landmarks, including the Wilmington waterfront at departure and the iconic Uptown Charlotte skyline upon arrival.
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Wilmington Waterfront
Get a clear view of downtown Wilmington and the historic USS North Carolina battleship docked on the river.
Piedmont Farmsteads
The landscape shifts from sandy coastal plains to the structured patterns of agricultural fields and rolling hills.
Uptown Charlotte Skyline
Usually visible on the approach, offering a dramatic view of the skyscrapers like the Bank of America Corporate Center.
The right side is premier for the Charlotte arrival; if the airport is landing to the south, you will likely fly right past the city center. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting on the Wilmington riverfront, though you may face some sun glare as you head west.
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Cape Fear River Basin
Visible immediately after takeoff, showcasing the dark, winding river cutting through the coastal pine forests.
Bladen Lakes State Forest
Observe the unique 'Carolina Bays'—mysterious elliptical depressions in the landscape that are filled with vegetation.
Lake Wylie
As you descend into Charlotte, look for the sprawling arms of this reservoir marking the border between the Carolinas.
Sit on the left for softer lighting during morning flights. Keep an eye out for the Lumber River's complex swamp systems mid-flight. During the descent, this side provides a better view of the suburban sprawl and the greenery of the Piedmont region.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 297 km (185 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 30 min
Departure: ILM (34.27059936523437, -77.90260314941406)
Arrival: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)
Route Type: Domestic
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