Charlotte to Madison flight path: CLT to MSN

Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Charlotte to Madison. While takeoff offers Appalachian views, the landing approach into Madison provides more visually distinctive and memorable scenery with the Yahara Lakes and isthmus geography. Right side captures Madison's unique landscape better overall.

During takeoff from Charlotte Douglas International (CLT), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the Piedmont region's rolling terrain and the beginning of the Appalachian foothills as the aircraft climbs northwest. Right side faces toward the coastal plain with less dramatic topography. Notable sights include: Blue Ridge Mountains (distant, on horizon), Catawba River valley, Piedmont plateau terrain, Charlotte urban sprawl receding below.

When landing at Dane Co Rgnl Truax Fld (MSN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Yahara Lakes chain and Madison's isthmus geography as the aircraft descends from the southeast. Left side faces toward less distinctive farmland and forest. Notable sights include: Yahara Lakes (Mendota, Monona, Waubesa), Madison isthmus and downtown skyline, Wisconsin farmland grid, Lake Michigan (distant, on clear days).

The flight from Charlotte Douglas International (CLT) to Dane Co Rgnl Truax Fld (MSN) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 708 miles (1,139 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.

Ohio River valley (crossing into Ohio/Indiana), Appalachian plateau terrain, scattered reservoirs and river valleys in eastern Indiana, transition to Great Lakes drainage basin, Wisconsin's drumlin field and glacial lake country