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SAT destination photo
ATL destination photo

SATATL

Our Recommendation
7.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers superior views of urban centers and the lush transition from the Texas Hill Country into the Appalachian foothills, including potential glimpses of Birmingham and the Atlanta skyline.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌳

Texas Hill Country

Immediately after takeoff, view the rolling limestone hills and cedar breaks north of San Antonio.

🌲

East Texas Piney Woods

Transition from the brush country into dense, expansive pine forests as you cross into Louisiana.

🏙️

Birmingham Skyline

Mid-flight, look for the urban sprawl of Alabama's largest city nestled in the Jones Valley.

⛰️

Appalachian Foothills

As you enter Georgia, the terrain becomes more rugged with the tail end of the mountain range.

🏙️

Atlanta Skyline

On the final approach from the west, the downtown and Midtown skyscrapers are often visible to the north.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. This side is ideal for spotting the transition from the dry West to the humid East. During the descent into ATL, keep your camera ready for the sprawling metropolitan area which is most prominent on this side during westerly arrivals.

Right Side Highlights
6.5
🗼

San Antonio Downtown

Depending on the departure runway, get a bird's eye view of the Tower of the Americas and the Alamo City.

🐊

Louisiana Wetlands

Fly over the intricate network of bayous, cypress swamps, and the Atchafalaya Basin.

🌉

Mississippi River

Witness the massive scale of the 'Father of Waters' as the flight crosses near Vicksburg or Natchez.

🌊

Alabama River Meanders

Follow the winding path of the river through the heart of Alabama's Black Belt region.

✈️

ATL Runway Maze

View the massive logistics and southern terminal complexes of the world's busiest airport upon landing.

The right side is perfect for afternoon flights to see the sunset reflecting off the Mississippi River. It offers a better perspective of the vast river systems and swamp geography of the South. Look for the distinct change in soil color to deep red as you move through Alabama and Georgia.

Top Activities in Atlanta
Route Information

Distance: 1,405 km (873 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 52 min

Departure: SAT (29.533700942993164, -98.46980285644533)

Arrival: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)

Route Type: Domestic

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