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SYR → CLT
Which side of the plane to sit from Syracuse Hancock International Airport (Syracuse) to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Charlotte)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the Finger Lakes immediately after departure and the most dramatic perspectives of the Appalachian ridge-and-valley formations throughout the flight.
Skaneateles Lake
A pristine view of the easternmost Finger Lake's turquoise waters shortly after takeoff from Syracuse.
Appalachian Ridges
The distinct 'corduroy' pattern of the Ridge-and-Valley province across Pennsylvania and Maryland.
Lake Norman
A massive view of North Carolina's largest man-made lake, dotted with islands and boats, just before landing.
Monongahela Forest
Deep green expanses of the dense Allegheny Plateau forests stretching toward West Virginia.
Blue Ridge Peaks
Striking views of the highest peaks in the Appalachian range as you cross the Virginia-North Carolina border.
The right side is ideal for morning flights when the sun illuminates the mountains from the east. Keep your window shade open during the first 10 minutes to see the Finger Lakes and the final 15 minutes for the scenic approach over Lake Norman.
Charlotte Skyline
Excellent views of the Uptown Charlotte skyscrapers during the final approach, especially when landing from the north.
Susquehanna River
A wide-angle view of the river winding through the Pennsylvania landscape near the capital of Harrisburg.
Shenandoah Valley
Vistas of the historic valley and the eastern slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains as the flight heads south.
North Carolina Piedmont
The transition from the rugged mountains to the rolling red-clay hills and farmlands of central North Carolina.
Sit on the left for evening flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. This side is also preferred for spotting the Charlotte city center during the descent into CLT, depending on air traffic control patterns.
Distance: 972 km (604 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 37 min
Departure: SYR (43.11119842529297, -76.1063003540039)
Arrival: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)
Route Type: Domestic
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