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MEM → CLT
Which side of the plane to sit from Memphis International Airport (Memphis) to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Charlotte)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers superior views of the Tennessee River crossing, distance views of the Nashville skyline, and a more expansive panorama of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during the descent into Charlotte.
Tennessee River Valley
Aerial views of the winding Tennessee River and the expansive Pickwick Lake near the TN-AL-MS border.
Nashville Skyline
On clear days, the 'Music City' skyline is visible to the North as the flight traverses central Tennessee.
Great Smoky Mountains
Breathtaking vistas of the ridgelines of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, especially stunning during autumn.
Cherokee National Forest
Vast stretches of dense Appalachian forest cover that transition from green to vibrant oranges and reds seasonally.
Lake Norman
A clear view of North Carolina's largest man-made lake as the aircraft begins its final descent into the CLT metro area.
Sit on the left (North-facing) for optimal lighting during afternoon flights to avoid glare. Watch for the dramatic rise of the Blue Ridge Escarpment about 30 minutes before landing. In autumn, the foliage colors are most prominent on this side as you pass over the national forests.
Memphis Metropolis
Excellent views of the sprawling logistics hubs and the Mississippi River corridor immediately after takeoff.
Nantahala National Forest
Views of the southern portion of the Appalachian range, including deep gorges and high peaks.
Clingmans Dome
Possibility to spot the highest point in the Smokies to the north-east while crossing the state line.
Lake Wylie
Detailed views of the Catawba River and Lake Wylie as the plane maneuvers for its final approach.
Uptown Charlotte
A spectacular view of the Charlotte skyline if the aircraft is landing on the 18-series runways.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to see the sunrise over the Atlantic-facing slopes. Keep your camera ready during the final 10 minutes of the flight; if the pilot approaches from the south, you will get a perfect view of the Charlotte Motor Speedway and the uptown skyscrapers.
Distance: 821 km (510 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min
Departure: MEM (35.04240036010742, -89.97669982910156)
Arrival: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)
Route Type: Domestic
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