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RDU destination photo
STL destination photo

RDUSTL

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is slightly preferred for the scenic approach into St. Louis, which often provides a clearer view of the iconic Gateway Arch and the downtown skyline when landing from the east.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏔️

Blue Ridge Mountains

View the rolling peaks of the southern Appalachian range shortly after departing North Carolina.

🐎

Kentucky Bluegrass

Observe the distinctive patterns of horse farms and rolling limestone plateaus through central Kentucky.

🌊

Ohio River Meanders

Watch the massive Ohio River curve along the border between Kentucky and Indiana.

🏙️

St. Louis Gateway Arch

On a typical westward approach, the city skyline and the 630-foot stainless steel monument appear clearly.

Sit on the left for the best chance to see the St. Louis Arch during descent. Afternoon flights provide excellent lighting as the sun illuminates the Arch's western face and the city skyline. Keep your camera ready as you cross the Mississippi River.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌲

George Washington Forest

Dense, mountainous forest canopy stretching across the border of Virginia and West Virginia.

🏛️

Charleston, WV

Look for the gold-domed state capitol building situated along the Kanawha River.

🌉

Ohio River Bridges

Aerial views of the industrial landscapes and bridges connecting the Midwest and the South.

💧

Mississippi-Missouri Confluence

If the flight path stays north, you may see where the two longest rivers in North America meet.

The right side is ideal for viewing the rugged terrain of West Virginia. If the flight arrives at night, the right side offers views of the suburban lights of Florissant and northern St. Louis County during the final approach.

Top Activities in St. Louis
Route Information

Distance: 1,072 km (666 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 26 min

Departure: RDU (35.877601623535156, -78.7874984741211)

Arrival: STL (38.748697, -90.370003)

Route Type: Domestic

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