While takeoff offers Hill Country views, the landing approach into Pittsburgh provides more dramatic and distinctive scenery with the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers' sharp curves and the city's iconic confluence geography. The river views during descent are more visually striking than the Hill Country terrain.
Flown AUS to PIT? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Austin to Pittsburgh is 1,209 miles (1,946 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Mississippi River (visible around 1.5 hours into flight near Memphis or St. Louis area depending on routing), the Appalachian foothills begin appearing in the eastern portion of the flight, and the Ohio River may be visible during descent into Pennsylvania. The terrain transitions from Texas Hill Country through the Mississippi River valley to increasingly forested Appalachian terrain.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from AUS
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Colorado River and the Hill Country terrain as the aircraft climbs northeast out of Austin. The river's winding path and the rolling limestone hills are distinctive from altitude.
Landing at PIT
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the Allegheny River and Pittsburgh's distinctive geography during descent. The river's sharp bends and the city's position at the confluence of three rivers create a dramatic urban landscape.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS) to Pittsburgh International (PIT)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Austin to Pittsburgh. While takeoff offers Hill Country views, the landing approach into Pittsburgh provides more dramatic and distinctive scenery with the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers' sharp curves and the city's iconic confluence geography. The river views during descent are more visually striking than the Hill Country terrain.
What can I see during takeoff from Austin Bergstrom International in Austin?
During takeoff from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Colorado River and the Hill Country terrain as the aircraft climbs northeast out of Austin. The river's winding path and the rolling limestone hills are distinctive from altitude. Notable sights include: Colorado River (visible as a meandering waterway below), Hill Country limestone ridges, Lake Travis (if visible during climb), Austin city grid.
What can I see when landing at Pittsburgh International in Pittsburgh?
When landing at Pittsburgh International (PIT), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Allegheny River and Pittsburgh's distinctive geography during descent. The river's sharp bends and the city's position at the confluence of three rivers create a dramatic urban landscape. Notable sights include: Allegheny River (prominent serpentine curves), Monongahela River, Point State Park (river confluence), Pittsburgh downtown skyline.
How long is the flight from Austin to Pittsburgh?
The flight from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS) to Pittsburgh International (PIT) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,209 miles (1,946 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Austin to Pittsburgh flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Mississippi River (visible around 1.5 hours into flight near Memphis or St. Louis area depending on routing), the Appalachian foothills begin appearing in the eastern portion of the flight, and the Ohio River may be visible during descent into Pennsylvania. The terrain transitions from Texas Hill Country through the Mississippi River valley to increasingly forested Appalachian terrain.