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PGD destination photo
AVL destination photo

PGDAVL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a stunning progression from the coastal waterways of Southwest Florida to the high peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains during the final approach into Asheville.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Charlotte Harbor

Aerial views of the Peace River and the expansive harbor area immediately after departure from PGD.

🌴

Florida Nature Coast

Vistas of the Gulf of Mexico's inner coastline and the marshy terrain of the Big Bend region in the distance.

🌳

Chattahoochee National Forest

Deep green rolling hills and dense forests as the flight crosses from Georgia into the Southern Appalachians.

⛰️

Great Smoky Mountains

The blue-misted ridges of America's most visited national park are visible on the western horizon during descent.

🏙️

West Asheville

Views of the French Broad River and the western outskirts of the city as the plane aligns with the runway.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is superior for spotting the distinct blue haze of the Smokies. Aim for a seat in front of the wing for the most unobstructed views of the transition from flat Florida wetlands to vertical mountain terrain.

Right Side Highlights
8.1
🛶

Central Florida Lakes

Dozens of small, sparkling freshwater lakes pepper the landscape during the initial climb through the interior.

🌾

South Carolina Piedmont

A patchwork of agricultural fields and small rural townships across the upstate region.

🏞️

Lake Lure & Hickory Nut Gorge

The dramatic rocky cliffs of the gorge and the shimmering waters of the lake where 'Dirty Dancing' was filmed.

🏔️

Mount Mitchell

On clear days, the highest peak in the Eastern United States is visible rising above the Black Mountain range.

🌲

Blue Ridge Parkway

The winding 'America's Favorite Drive' can be spotted snaking along the ridges just east of the airport.

The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights, as the sun illuminates the eastern slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Keep your camera ready about 15 minutes before landing for the dramatic transition from the Piedmont plateau into the high mountains.

Top Activities in Asheville
Route Information

Distance: 948 km (589 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min

Departure: PGD (26.92020035, -81.99050140000001)

Arrival: AVL (35.43619918823242, -82.54180145263672)

Route Type: Domestic

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