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RDU → MEM
Which side of the plane to sit from Raleigh Durham International Airport (Raleigh-durham) to Memphis International Airport (Memphis)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers superior views of the highest peaks in the Appalachian chain and a better angle for the Nashville city skyline.
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Mount Mitchell
The highest peak in the eastern United States is visible approximately 25-30 minutes into the flight.
Great Smoky Mountains
A majestic view of the main ridge line of the Smokies, including Clingmans Dome and the surrounding national park.
Knoxville Skyline
Spot the Sunsphere and the University of Tennessee campus along the banks of the Tennessee River.
Nashville Skyline
A clear view of the 'Batman Building' and the Cumberland River as the flight path passes just north of the city.
Kentucky Lake
The massive expanse of the Tennessee River widening into Kentucky Lake is visible before the final leg into Memphis.
To see the highest terrain, sit on the right side and book a window seat away from the wing. Try to fly in the morning when the 'smoke' (fog) of the Smoky Mountains is most prominent and the sun is at your back, providing perfectly lit landscapes of the Appalachian range.
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Asheville & Biltmore
Look south to see the sprawling Biltmore Estate nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains shortly after crossing the NC border.
Fontana Lake
The emerald green waters of this deep mountain reservoir are visible on the southern edge of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Percy Priest Lake
A massive recreation destination located just east of Nashville, featuring jagged shorelines and numerous islands.
Mississippi River
The iconic 'M Bridge' and the vast, winding Mississippi River dominate the view during the final descent into Memphis.
Downtown Memphis
Great views of the Memphis Pyramid and the historic Beale Street district as the aircraft aligns for landing.
The left side is the preferred choice for the arrival phase into Memphis. If the flight approaches from the west, you will get a spectacular panoramic view of the Mississippi River and the city skyline. This side is also better for sunset views on evening flights as the sun will be to the south and west.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,017 km (632 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min
Departure: RDU (35.877601623535156, -78.7874984741211)
Arrival: MEM (35.04240036010742, -89.97669982910156)
Route Type: Domestic
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