While the landing approach favors the left side, the takeoff climb-out on the right offers more visually distinctive natural features (Colorado River, Hill Country terrain) compared to the relatively flat terrain north of Austin. The right side provides the more memorable scenic experience for the majority of the flight.
Flown AUS to STL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Austin to St. Louis is 722 miles (1,161 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Texas, passing over the Balcones Escarpment transition zone, then continues northeast across the Blackland Prairie region. Notable midpoint features include the Waco area (visible around 45 minutes into flight), the Brazos River valley, and the gradual transition from Texas Hill Country terrain to flatter prairie. As the aircraft approaches Missouri, the landscape becomes increasingly flat with agricultural fields and scattered lakes visible. The Illinois River valley becomes apparent in the final descent phase.
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 northeastward out of Austin. The river's distinctive meandering path and surrounding limestone hills are clearly visible during the initial climb phase.
Landing at STL
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the Mississippi River and the confluence with the Missouri River as the aircraft descends into St. Louis. The river's massive scale and the distinctive urban riverfront are striking visual features during final approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS) to Lambert St Louis International (STL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Austin to St. Louis. While the landing approach favors the left side, the takeoff climb-out on the right offers more visually distinctive natural features (Colorado River, Hill Country terrain) compared to the relatively flat terrain north of Austin. The right side provides the more memorable scenic experience for the majority of the flight.
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 northeastward out of Austin. The river's distinctive meandering path and surrounding limestone hills are clearly visible during the initial climb phase. Notable sights include: Colorado River (winding through central Austin), Lake Travis (northwest of departure path), Hill Country limestone ridges, Austin city grid.
What can I see when landing at Lambert St Louis International in St. Louis?
When landing at Lambert St Louis International (STL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Mississippi River and the confluence with the Missouri River as the aircraft descends into St. Louis. The river's massive scale and the distinctive urban riverfront are striking visual features during final approach. Notable sights include: Mississippi River (broad and prominent), Missouri River confluence, St. Louis Gateway Arch area, downtown St. Louis skyline.
How long is the flight from Austin to St. Louis?
The flight from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS) to Lambert St Louis International (STL) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 722 miles (1,161 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Austin to St. Louis flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Texas, passing over the Balcones Escarpment transition zone, then continues northeast across the Blackland Prairie region. Notable midpoint features include the Waco area (visible around 45 minutes into flight), the Brazos River valley, and the gradual transition from Texas Hill Country terrain to flatter prairie. As the aircraft approaches Missouri, the landscape becomes increasingly flat with agricultural fields and scattered lakes visible. The Illinois River valley becomes apparent in the final descent phase.