While both sides score equally for the full flight, the right side edges ahead due to the superior landing experience. The approach to McGhee Tyson offers genuine mountain scenery with the Great Smoky Mountains foothills becoming increasingly visible during descent, whereas the left side's landing approach shows primarily forested plateau terrain. The takeoff from Nashville is comparable on both sides, but the landing advantage gives the right side the edge for overall scenic value on this short regional flight.
Flown BNA to TYS? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Nashville to Knoxville is 152 miles (244 km), a flight of about 45 minutes.
Cumberland Plateau terrain, Walden Ridge, Clinch River valley, transition from Nashville Basin to East Tennessee ridge-and-valley topography
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from BNA
LEFTNashville's urban sprawl and the Cumberland River valley are visible on the left side during climb-out. The city skyline and surrounding suburban development provide more immediate visual interest than the right side's forested terrain.
Landing at TYS
RIGHTThe approach to McGhee Tyson brings the Great Smoky Mountains into view on the right side during descent. The ridge-and-valley topography of East Tennessee becomes increasingly prominent, offering more dramatic terrain than the left side's forested plateau.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Nashville International (BNA) to Mc Ghee Tyson (TYS)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Nashville to Knoxville. While both sides score equally for the full flight, the right side edges ahead due to the superior landing experience. The approach to McGhee Tyson offers genuine mountain scenery with the Great Smoky Mountains foothills becoming increasingly visible during descent, whereas the left side's landing approach shows primarily forested plateau terrain. The takeoff from Nashville is comparable on both sides, but the landing advantage gives the right side the edge for overall scenic value on this short regional flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Nashville International in Nashville?
During takeoff from Nashville International (BNA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Nashville's urban sprawl and the Cumberland River valley are visible on the left side during climb-out. The city skyline and surrounding suburban development provide more immediate visual interest than the right side's forested terrain. Notable sights include: Nashville downtown skyline, Cumberland River, Belle Meade area residential districts, surrounding Nashville metropolitan sprawl.
What can I see when landing at Mc Ghee Tyson in Knoxville?
When landing at Mc Ghee Tyson (TYS), sit on the Right side for the best views. The approach to McGhee Tyson brings the Great Smoky Mountains into view on the right side during descent. The ridge-and-valley topography of East Tennessee becomes increasingly prominent, offering more dramatic terrain than the left side's forested plateau. Notable sights include: Great Smoky Mountains ridgelines, Knoxville urban area, Tennessee River valley, Sevier County foothills.
How long is the flight from Nashville to Knoxville?
The flight from Nashville International (BNA) to Mc Ghee Tyson (TYS) takes about 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 152 miles (244 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Nashville to Knoxville flight path pass over?
Cumberland Plateau terrain, Walden Ridge, Clinch River valley, transition from Nashville Basin to East Tennessee ridge-and-valley topography