The right side scores marginally higher due to Columbus's more substantial urban skyline and the Scioto River's visibility during approach, which provides better landmark density and visual variety during landing. While both sides are relatively modest in scenic drama—this is a short Midwest flight over flat to gently rolling terrain with no mountains or dramatic features—the right side's urban scenery at Columbus outweighs the left side's takeoff advantage at Little Rock.
Flown LIT to CMH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Little Rock to Columbus is 628 miles (1,011 km), a flight of about 2 hours.
The flight path crosses central Tennessee and southern Kentucky, passing over the Cumberland Plateau's eastern edge and the rolling terrain of the Highland Rim. The Tennessee River valley and scattered lakes (including Kentucky Lake in the distance) may be visible during cruise at altitude, though at 25,000+ feet these features appear as subtle variations in terrain rather than dramatic landmarks. The landscape transitions from Arkansas's forested hills through Tennessee's plateau country into Ohio's glaciated plains—a gradual shift from slightly more dramatic terrain to flat Midwest geography.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from LIT
LEFTLittle Rock's downtown skyline and the Arkansas River are visible during climb-out on the left side. The city provides modest urban scenery during departure, with the river winding through the landscape below.
Landing at CMH
RIGHTColumbus's urban landscape and the Scioto River provide better visual interest during approach. The city's downtown core and surrounding suburban sprawl are more pronounced than Little Rock's, and the approach path offers views of the Scioto River valley and the transition from rural central Ohio into the metropolitan area.
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 Adams Fld (LIT) to Port Columbus International (CMH)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Little Rock to Columbus. The right side scores marginally higher due to Columbus's more substantial urban skyline and the Scioto River's visibility during approach, which provides better landmark density and visual variety during landing. While both sides are relatively modest in scenic drama—this is a short Midwest flight over flat to gently rolling terrain with no mountains or dramatic features—the right side's urban scenery at Columbus outweighs the left side's takeoff advantage at Little Rock.
What can I see during takeoff from Adams Fld in Little Rock?
During takeoff from Adams Fld (LIT), sit on the Left side for the best views. Little Rock's downtown skyline and the Arkansas River are visible during climb-out on the left side. The city provides modest urban scenery during departure, with the river winding through the landscape below. Notable sights include: Arkansas River, Little Rock downtown skyline, Pulaski Heights residential areas, Lake Maumelle to the northwest.
What can I see when landing at Port Columbus International in Columbus?
When landing at Port Columbus International (CMH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Columbus's urban landscape and the Scioto River provide better visual interest during approach. The city's downtown core and surrounding suburban sprawl are more pronounced than Little Rock's, and the approach path offers views of the Scioto River valley and the transition from rural central Ohio into the metropolitan area. Notable sights include: Scioto River, Columbus downtown skyline, Hilliard and New Albany suburbs, Scioto Darby Creek confluence.
How long is the flight from Little Rock to Columbus?
The flight from Adams Fld (LIT) to Port Columbus International (CMH) takes about 2 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 628 miles (1,011 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Little Rock to Columbus flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Tennessee and southern Kentucky, passing over the Cumberland Plateau's eastern edge and the rolling terrain of the Highland Rim. The Tennessee River valley and scattered lakes (including Kentucky Lake in the distance) may be visible during cruise at altitude, though at 25,000+ feet these features appear as subtle variations in terrain rather than dramatic landmarks. The landscape transitions from Arkansas's forested hills through Tennessee's plateau country into Ohio's glaciated plains—a gradual shift from slightly more dramatic terrain to flat Midwest geography.