Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Columbus to Norfolk. While landing favors the left, takeoff from Columbus on the right side provides more compelling visual interest with the Scioto River and downtown skyline. The flight path itself (southwest toward Norfolk) means right-side seats capture more of the mid-flight geography over West Virginia and eastern Kentucky terrain.

During takeoff from Port Columbus International (CMH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Scioto River winding through downtown Columbus and the city's skyline during initial climb. The river's distinctive curves are visible for the first 5-10 minutes of flight, providing clear geographic context of the departure. Notable sights include: Scioto River (downtown corridor), Columbus skyline and high-rises, Ohio State University campus to the north, Griggs Reservoir to the northwest.

When landing at Norfolk International (ORF), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views of the James River estuary and Hampton Roads waterway during descent into Norfolk. The water body's complex geometry and the naval installations around the harbor provide distinctive visual landmarks unavailable from the right side. Notable sights include: James River estuary, Hampton Roads harbor complex, Naval Station Norfolk (visible as organized pier structures), Elizabeth River confluence.

The flight from Port Columbus International (CMH) to Norfolk International (ORF) takes Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes.

The flight path crosses central West Virginia, passing east of Charleston and over the Appalachian plateau. The New River Gorge is visible from altitude as a distinctive dark linear feature if flying near it. The terrain transitions from Ohio's relatively flat landscape to increasingly rolling, forested hills of Appalachia. The Bluefield area marks the approximate midpoint. Eastern Kentucky's ridge-and-valley topography becomes visible as the flight progresses southeast. The flight then crosses into Virginia, descending over the Piedmont region before reaching the Tidewater lowlands near Norfolk.