Atlanta to Norfolk is 516 miles (830 km), a flight of about 1 hour 35 minutes.
The right side wins mainly on the strength of the Norfolk approach, where Chesapeake Bay and Hampton Roads provide the only substantial scenery on an otherwise flat, unremarkable route across the inland Southeast.
Flight Path
Piedmont plateau of Georgia and the Carolinas, rolling farmland with occasional river valleys, no major mountain ranges or coastlines until final descent
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ATL
RIGHTDeparting ATL to the east, both sides show flat Piedmont terrain with little to distinguish them, but the right (south) side offers a brief glimpse of the Atlanta suburbs and rolling Georgia farmland before leveling into cruise. Neither side has real drama here.
Landing at ORF
RIGHTOn approach into ORF, the flight path typically crosses Hampton Roads and the mouth of Chesapeake Bay, giving passengers on the right side a clear view of the naval shipyards, the Elizabeth River, and the open bay waters as the aircraft turns for final approach. This is the most visually distinct part of the whole route.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from The William B Hartsfield Atlanta International (ATL) to Norfolk International (ORF)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Atlanta to Norfolk. The right side wins mainly on the strength of the Norfolk approach, where Chesapeake Bay and Hampton Roads provide the only substantial scenery on an otherwise flat, unremarkable route across the inland Southeast.
What can I see during takeoff from The William B Hartsfield Atlanta International in Atlanta?
During takeoff from The William B Hartsfield Atlanta International (ATL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing ATL to the east, both sides show flat Piedmont terrain with little to distinguish them, but the right (south) side offers a brief glimpse of the Atlanta suburbs and rolling Georgia farmland before leveling into cruise. Neither side has real drama here. Notable sights include: Atlanta suburban sprawl, Piedmont farmland, Chattahoochee River tributaries.
What can I see when landing at Norfolk International in Norfolk?
When landing at Norfolk International (ORF), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into ORF, the flight path typically crosses Hampton Roads and the mouth of Chesapeake Bay, giving passengers on the right side a clear view of the naval shipyards, the Elizabeth River, and the open bay waters as the aircraft turns for final approach. This is the most visually distinct part of the whole route. Notable sights include: Chesapeake Bay, Hampton Roads harbor, Norfolk Naval Station, Elizabeth River.
How long is the flight from Atlanta to Norfolk?
The flight from The William B Hartsfield Atlanta International (ATL) to Norfolk International (ORF) takes about 1 hour 35 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 516 miles (830 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Atlanta to Norfolk flight path pass over?
Piedmont plateau of Georgia and the Carolinas, rolling farmland with occasional river valleys, no major mountain ranges or coastlines until final descent