While both sides score equally at 2.0 due to the short flight duration and predominantly flat terrain, the right side edges ahead for the landing experience. The Mississippi River and Memphis's bluff-top setting provide more distinctive visual interest during approach than Austin's departure offers. This is a short regional flight over flat terrain with limited scenic drama on either side, but the river crossing and urban waterfront landing give right a slight practical advantage.
Flown AUS to MEM? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Austin to Memphis is 558 miles (899 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Texas and northwestern Tennessee, passing over the Blackland Prairie region of Texas (flat, agricultural), then the forested terrain of eastern Texas and western Tennessee. No mountains, significant water bodies, or major urban centers lie directly on the typical flight corridor. The landscape is predominantly rolling to flat with scattered woodlands and farmland throughout.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from AUS
LEFTLeft side offers a brief view of Austin's urban core and Lady Bird Lake during initial climb before the aircraft turns northeast. Right side faces open terrain with no distinctive landmarks during departure.
Landing at MEM
RIGHTRight side provides views of the Mississippi River and Memphis's urban waterfront during the final approach to runway 36. The river's distinctive meanders and the city's position on the bluff are clearly visible. Left side shows only flat, forested terrain with no major landmarks.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS) to Memphis International (MEM)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Austin to Memphis. While both sides score equally at 2.0 due to the short flight duration and predominantly flat terrain, the right side edges ahead for the landing experience. The Mississippi River and Memphis's bluff-top setting provide more distinctive visual interest during approach than Austin's departure offers. This is a short regional flight over flat terrain with limited scenic drama on either side, but the river crossing and urban waterfront landing give right a slight practical advantage.
What can I see during takeoff from Austin Bergstrom International in Austin?
During takeoff from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers a brief view of Austin's urban core and Lady Bird Lake during initial climb before the aircraft turns northeast. Right side faces open terrain with no distinctive landmarks during departure. Notable sights include: Lady Bird Lake, downtown Austin skyline, Colorado River valley.
What can I see when landing at Memphis International in Memphis?
When landing at Memphis International (MEM), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Mississippi River and Memphis's urban waterfront during the final approach to runway 36. The river's distinctive meanders and the city's position on the bluff are clearly visible. Left side shows only flat, forested terrain with no major landmarks. Notable sights include: Mississippi River meanders, Memphis downtown skyline on the bluff, Shelby Farms area to the east.
How long is the flight from Austin to Memphis?
The flight from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS) to Memphis International (MEM) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 558 miles (899 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Austin to Memphis flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Texas and northwestern Tennessee, passing over the Blackland Prairie region of Texas (flat, agricultural), then the forested terrain of eastern Texas and western Tennessee. No mountains, significant water bodies, or major urban centers lie directly on the typical flight corridor. The landscape is predominantly rolling to flat with scattered woodlands and farmland throughout.