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SFB → HTS
Which side of the plane to sit from Orlando Sanford International Airport (Sanford) to Tri-State/Milton J. Ferguson Field (Huntington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a premier perspective of the Great Smoky Mountains' highest peaks and the rugged transition from the coastal plains to the Appalachian Plateau.
Ocala National Forest
Shortly after takeoff, witness the vast expanse of the world's largest sand pine scrub forest.
Great Smoky Mountains
Vantage points of Clingmans Dome and the mist-covered ridges of the most visited national park in the US.
Knoxville Skyline
Clear views of the Tennessee River and the Sunsphere in downtown Knoxville during the mid-flight transition.
Cumberland Plateau
Dramatic sandstone cliffs and deep gorges marking the western edge of the Appalachian Mountains.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you, providing optimal saturation for mountain photography. Keep your camera ready about 45 minutes after departure for the Smoky Mountain crossing. In winter, the lack of foliage on the trees makes the topographic folds of the Appalachian ridges much more distinct and photogenic.
Carolina Piedmont
A patchwork of rolling hills, red clay fields, and dense pine forests stretching toward the horizon.
Lake Norman
The massive 'Inland Sea' of North Carolina, dotted with islands and upscale waterfront developments.
Blue Ridge Escarpment
The sharp geographical rise where the lowlands meet the high ridges of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Ohio River Meanders
The wide, winding Ohio River serves as a spectacular landmark during the final approach into Huntington.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights as the sun illuminates the eastern face of the mountains. During the descent into HTS, watch for the bridges crossing the Ohio River, which are often beautifully lit during twilight flights. This side also offers better views of the massive suburban sprawl around Charlotte if the flight path tracks slightly east.
Distance: 1,073 km (667 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 26 min
Departure: SFB (28.7775993347168, -81.23750305175781)
Arrival: HTS (38.36669922, -82.55799866)
Route Type: Domestic
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