While takeoff offers Appalachian views, the landing approach to Jackson Hole is visually superior—the Teton Range is one of North America's most dramatic mountain vistas from the air, and the left side captures this iconic scenery during descent.
Flown BHM to JAC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Birmingham to Jackson is 1,462 miles (2,353 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Cumberland Plateau (Tennessee/Kentucky border), then transitions into the Mississippi River valley near Memphis. Over Missouri and Kansas, you'll see the Great Plains with the Missouri River visible in sections. As you approach Wyoming, the Rocky Mountain front becomes visible on the horizon, with the Wind River Range appearing before the final approach to Jackson Hole. The landscape transitions from deciduous forest to grassland to high desert and alpine terrain.
Great circle distance and headings ›
.jpg?width=600)
.jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from BHM
RIGHTRight side offers views of the Appalachian foothills and the Tennessee River valley as the aircraft climbs northwestward. The terrain rises progressively, giving good perspective on Alabama's topography during the initial climb-out.
Landing at JAC
LEFTLeft side provides excellent views of the Teton Range and Jackson Hole valley during descent. The dramatic peaks dominate the approach, and the valley floor with Jackson Lake and the Snake River are clearly visible on the left as you descend toward the runway.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Birmingham International (BHM) to Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Birmingham to Jackson. While takeoff offers Appalachian views, the landing approach to Jackson Hole is visually superior—the Teton Range is one of North America's most dramatic mountain vistas from the air, and the left side captures this iconic scenery during descent.
What can I see during takeoff from Birmingham International in Birmingham?
During takeoff from Birmingham International (BHM), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers views of the Appalachian foothills and the Tennessee River valley as the aircraft climbs northwestward. The terrain rises progressively, giving good perspective on Alabama's topography during the initial climb-out. Notable sights include: Tennessee River (visible as a winding waterway below), Appalachian foothills to the north, Birmingham urban sprawl receding southward, Talladega National Forest (forested ridge pattern to the northeast).
What can I see when landing at Jackson Hole Airport in Jackson?
When landing at Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side provides excellent views of the Teton Range and Jackson Hole valley during descent. The dramatic peaks dominate the approach, and the valley floor with Jackson Lake and the Snake River are clearly visible on the left as you descend toward the runway. Notable sights include: Teton Range (Grand Teton and surrounding peaks), Jackson Lake (large alpine lake at the base of the Tetons), Snake River (winding through Jackson Hole valley), Jackson Hole valley floor (wide mountain-ringed basin).
How long is the flight from Birmingham to Jackson?
The flight from Birmingham International (BHM) to Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,462 miles (2,353 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Birmingham to Jackson flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Cumberland Plateau (Tennessee/Kentucky border), then transitions into the Mississippi River valley near Memphis. Over Missouri and Kansas, you'll see the Great Plains with the Missouri River visible in sections. As you approach Wyoming, the Rocky Mountain front becomes visible on the horizon, with the Wind River Range appearing before the final approach to Jackson Hole. The landscape transitions from deciduous forest to grassland to high desert and alpine terrain.