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TRI → CLT
Which side of the plane to sit from Tri-Cities Regional TN/VA Airport (BRISTOL) to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Charlotte)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a direct view of the highest peaks in the Appalachian Mountains, including Mount Mitchell, and typically provides the best perspective of Lake Norman and the Charlotte skyline during the descent.
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Mount Mitchell
The highest peak in the Eastern United States, standing at 6,684 feet within the Black Mountains.
Lake James
A stunning mountain lake at the base of the Linville Rim, often mirroring the surrounding peaks.
Lake Norman
The massive 'Inland Sea' of North Carolina, featuring hundreds of miles of residential shoreline.
Uptown Charlotte Skyline
During the standard descent from the north, the skyscrapers of Uptown provide a spectacular urban view.
Bank of America Stadium
Home of the Carolina Panthers, clearly visible when the flight approaches CLT from the west or south.
The right side is premier for spotting the highest Appalachian summits. Aim for a window seat away from the wing (typically rows 1-8 or 18-22 on regional jets) to capture the Charlotte skyline. In autumn, this side provides incredible views of the changing foliage over the Pisgah National Forest.
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South Holston Lake
A massive, winding reservoir on the Holston River visible immediately after takeoff from TRI.
Grandfather Mountain
Look for the distinctive profile of this ancient peak, known for its mile-high swinging bridge.
Linville Gorge
The 'Grand Canyon of the East' appears as a deep, rugged cleft in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Hickory and Foothills
The transition from the rugged mountains to the rolling industrial foothills of North Carolina.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is better for spotting the Linville Wilderness areas and the high country near Boone and Blowing Rock. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff as the mountain terrain is most dramatic in the first 15 minutes.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 193 km (120 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 19 min
Departure: TRI (36.475201, -82.40740100000001)
Arrival: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)
Route Type: Domestic
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