Loading map...
RIC → ATL
Which side of the plane to sit from Richmond International Airport (Richmond) to Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior panoramic view of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains and the iconic Stone Mountain during the descent into Atlanta.
Search flights from RIC to ATL
Blue Ridge Mountains
Enjoy a continuous view of the Appalachian range running parallel to the flight path to the west.
Winston-Salem
Clear views of the 'Twin City' and the surrounding foothills of North Carolina.
Stone Mountain
A massive, world-famous quartz monzonite dome located just east of Atlanta.
Atlanta Skyline
Stunning views of the Buckhead, Midtown, and Downtown skylines during the final approach into ATL.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Appalachians. Stone Mountain is the primary landmark to watch for; it typically appears about 10-15 minutes before landing. If the flight arrives from the east, this side offers the most direct view of the Atlanta city center.
Book Hotels in Atlanta
James River
Catch views of the winding James River as it flows south of Richmond immediately after takeoff.
Kerr Lake
A massive reservoir straddling the VA/NC border, featuring hundreds of miles of shoreline.
Charlotte Skyline
Look south to spot the 'Uptown' skyscrapers of North Carolina's largest city.
Lake Norman
A sprawling man-made lake north of Charlotte, often bustling with boat traffic.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct solar glare. It provides the best perspective of the Piedmont region's numerous reservoirs and the urban sprawl of the Carolinas. During high-traffic periods, you may enter a holding pattern that offers extended views of the Georgia countryside.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 773 km (480 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 17 min
Departure: RIC (37.50519943237305, -77.3197021484375)
Arrival: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.