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MCI → BNA
Which side of the plane to sit from Kansas City International Airport (Kansas City) to Nashville International Airport (Nashville)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally superior for this route because it offers a greater chance to see the St. Louis skyline and the Gateway Arch when passing the Mississippi River, along with sweeping views of the Ohio River valley.
Search flights from MCI to BNA
Kansas City Skyline
Shortly after takeoff, view the downtown KCMO skyline and the T-Mobile Center to the south-southeast.
St. Louis & Gateway Arch
On clear days, the 630-foot stainless steel Arch is visible as you cross the Mississippi River.
Mississippi River
Observe the massive scale of the Mississippi River as it meets the Missouri and Illinois rivers.
Shawnee National Forest
Lush green canopy and rocky outcrops typical of Southern Illinois are visible during the cruise phase.
Ohio River Crossing
The winding Ohio River serves as a major geographical marker between Illinois and Kentucky.
Sit on the left for the best chance of spotting St. Louis. Flights in the morning provide the best lighting for photography on this side, as the sun will be to the south. Look for the Arch roughly 35-40 minutes after departure. Seasonal shifts in flight paths can occasionally push the plane further south, so keep your eyes peeled for the city lights on evening flights.
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The Ozarks
Aerial views of the rolling hills and deep valleys of the northern Ozark plateau in Missouri.
Lake of the Ozarks
The distinctive 'Dragon' shape of this massive man-made lake is often visible to the south.
Land Between the Lakes
A stunning view of the peninsula between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley near the Tennessee border.
Cumberland River
Watch the river snake through the landscape as the aircraft begins its final descent into Nashville.
The right side offers great views of the watery landscapes of the Tennessee/Kentucky border. Afternoon flights may face direct sun glare, so bring sunglasses. This side is excellent during autumn when the Ozark foliage changes color. During the approach to BNA, you may see the sprawling suburbs and parks of Middle Tennessee.
Book Hotels in NashvilleDistance: 790 km (491 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 19 min
Departure: MCI (39.2976, -94.713898)
Arrival: BNA (36.1245002746582, -86.6781997680664)
Route Type: Domestic
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