Loading map...
STL → MWA
Which side of the plane to sit from St Louis Lambert International Airport (St. Louis) to Williamson County Regional Airport (Marion)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the Mississippi River's winding path and a direct view of the expansive Crab Orchard Lake during the final approach into Marion.
Search flights from STL to MWA
Mississippi River
Extensive views of the mighty Mississippi as it bends and twists south toward the confluence with the Ohio River.
Chester Riverfront
The historic town of Chester, Illinois, perched on the bluffs overlooking the river valley.
Shawnee National Forest
Rolling hills and the northern edges of the dense hardwood canopy characteristic of Southern Illinois.
Crab Orchard Lake
The primary scenic feature on approach, part of a massive national wildlife refuge featuring intricate shorelines.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to capture the sunset reflecting off the Mississippi River. Since this is a very short flight (under 30 minutes), keep your camera ready from takeoff to landing, as the approach over the wildlife refuge occurs quickly.
Book Hotels in Marion
St. Louis Skyline
Clear views of the Gateway Arch and the downtown urban core immediately after departure from Lambert.
Kaskaskia River
The winding Kaskaskia River flows through the flat agricultural plains of southern Illinois.
Rend Lake
A massive reservoir providing a distinct blue contrast to the surrounding green farmland north of the destination.
Sit on the left for early morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the rising sun. Look for the distinct geometric patterns of Illinois farmland and the occasional glint of the Gateway Arch during the initial climb if the flight departs toward the south.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 162 km (101 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 16 min
Departure: STL (38.748697, -90.370003)
Arrival: MWA (37.75500107, -89.01110077)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.