Right side offers the most consistent scenic value: Lake Apopka and central Florida's lake systems during takeoff, then the Appalachian foothills and ridge systems become visible in the midpoint of the flight as you travel northwest through Georgia and Tennessee.
Flown MCO to LOU? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Orlando to Louisville is 722 miles (1,162 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path travels northwest from Orlando through central Georgia and into Tennessee. Notable features include the Ocmulgee River valley in central Georgia, the transition from flat Florida terrain to the rolling Piedmont region, and the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains becoming visible as you approach Kentucky. The Great Smoky Mountains remain too far west to be visible on this direct route, but the Cumberland Plateau and Tennessee Ridge-and-Valley topography create visible elevation changes in the landscape during the cruise phase.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MCO
RIGHTRight side captures the immediate Orlando metropolitan area and the chain of lakes that define central Florida's geography. You'll see the urban sprawl of Orlando and the distinctive lake systems that are prominent features during the initial climb-out northwestward.
Landing at LOU
LEFTLeft side provides views of the Ohio River valley and Louisville's position along the river during descent. The Ohio River is a major geographic feature that defines Louisville's location, and you'll see it clearly on approach from the south.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Orlando International (MCO) to Bowman Fld (LOU)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Orlando to Louisville. Right side offers the most consistent scenic value: Lake Apopka and central Florida's lake systems during takeoff, then the Appalachian foothills and ridge systems become visible in the midpoint of the flight as you travel northwest through Georgia and Tennessee.
What can I see during takeoff from Orlando International in Orlando?
During takeoff from Orlando International (MCO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures the immediate Orlando metropolitan area and the chain of lakes that define central Florida's geography. You'll see the urban sprawl of Orlando and the distinctive lake systems that are prominent features during the initial climb-out northwestward. Notable sights include: Lake Apopka (largest lake visible from MCO), downtown Orlando skyline, chain of smaller lakes to the east and south, Florida's flat terrain extending to the horizon.
What can I see when landing at Bowman Fld in Louisville?
When landing at Bowman Fld (LOU), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side provides views of the Ohio River valley and Louisville's position along the river during descent. The Ohio River is a major geographic feature that defines Louisville's location, and you'll see it clearly on approach from the south. Notable sights include: Ohio River (prominent serpentine feature), Louisville downtown skyline along the river, the river's distinctive meanders and bends, surrounding Kentucky hills and forested terrain.
How long is the flight from Orlando to Louisville?
The flight from Orlando International (MCO) to Bowman Fld (LOU) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 722 miles (1,162 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Orlando to Louisville flight path pass over?
The flight path travels northwest from Orlando through central Georgia and into Tennessee. Notable features include the Ocmulgee River valley in central Georgia, the transition from flat Florida terrain to the rolling Piedmont region, and the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains becoming visible as you approach Kentucky. The Great Smoky Mountains remain too far west to be visible on this direct route, but the Cumberland Plateau and Tennessee Ridge-and-Valley topography create visible elevation changes in the landscape during the cruise phase.