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TYS destination photo
IAH destination photo

TYSIAH

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the Great Smoky Mountains shortly after takeoff and a more scenic approach into Houston, often catching glimpses of the Gulf Coast and the intricate bayou systems of Louisiana.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
⛰️

Great Smoky Mountains

Panoramic views of the blue-misted peaks of the Appalachian range shortly after departing Knoxville.

🏙️

Birmingham Skyline

A clear view of the 'Magic City' and Red Mountain as the flight traverses central Alabama.

🌊

Mississippi River Delta

The wide, meandering curves of the lower Mississippi River, including numerous oxbow lakes.

🐊

Louisiana Wetlands

The intricate, lace-like network of bayous and swamps in the Atchafalaya Basin.

⚓

Galveston Bay

Shimmering coastal waters and the sprawling Houston Ship Channel on the final approach into IAH.

Choose the left side for morning flights to see the Smokies illuminated by the rising sun. During the descent into Houston, this side frequently offers views of the San Jacinto Monument and the industrial complexity of the coast. Watch for the sharp transition from the green Tennessee Valley to the flat coastal plains.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
💧

Tennessee River

Beautiful views of the serpentine river winding through the Tennessee Valley near the start of the trip.

🚜

Southern Farmland

Distinctive grid-like patterns and colorful patchwork of rural Alabama and Mississippi agriculture.

🛶

Vicksburg Crossing

Aerial perspective of the historic river bluffs and bridges crossing the Mississippi River.

🌲

East Texas Piney Woods

A dense, emerald carpet of pine forests as the flight crosses from Louisiana into Texas.

🌅

Sunset Horizons

Spectacular golden hour views across the horizon if traveling on a late afternoon flight.

The right side is the prime choice for evening departures to enjoy the sunset over the horizon. It offers a better look at the massive reservoirs along the Tennessee River. Ensure your window is clear of glare during the mid-flight stretch over the flatlands of Mississippi where the sun can be intense.

Top Activities in Houston
Route Information

Distance: 1,241 km (771 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 39 min

Departure: TYS (35.81100082, -83.99400329999999)

Arrival: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)

Route Type: Domestic

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