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MSL → ATL
Which side of the plane to sit from Northwest Alabama Regional Airport (Muscle Shoals) to Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides exceptional views of the Tennessee River, the iconic Saturn V rocket in Huntsville, and the rolling foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
Tennessee River
Immediate views of the winding river and Wilson Dam shortly after departure from MSL.
Huntsville & Space Center
Look for the towering Saturn V rocket and the massive Redstone Arsenal complex.
Lake Guntersville
A stunning crossing of Alabama's largest lake, known for its scenic bridges and islands.
Sand Mountain
The dramatic rising plateau marking the southern reaches of the Appalachian range.
North Atlanta Suburbs
Aerial views of Kennesaw Mountain and the dense suburban canopy of the metro area.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the southern sun glare. Keep your eyes peeled about 15 minutes into the flight for the Huntsville skyline and the Rocket Center. During autumn, the foliage over the Appalachian foothills is spectacular.
Bankhead National Forest
A deep green expanse of wilderness located south of the flight path.
Lewis Smith Lake
Distinctive clear blue water and jagged shoreline visible in the North Alabama hills.
Weiss Lake
A massive reservoir near the GA/AL border with intricate inlets and recreational docks.
Cheaha Mountain
Distant views of the highest point in Alabama within the Talladega National Forest.
ATL Approach
Excellent views of the airport infrastructure if the flight enters from the western corridors.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be behind you. This side offers a more serene, natural landscape with numerous lakes. On clear days, you can see the distant skyscrapers of downtown Atlanta during the final descent.
Distance: 318 km (198 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 32 min
Departure: MSL (34.74530029, -87.61019897)
Arrival: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)
Route Type: Domestic
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