While takeoff offers interesting water and naval infrastructure views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic and varied scenery—the Cumberland River's distinctive curves, downtown Nashville, and the transition into Tennessee's rolling hill country make for a more visually rewarding flight experience overall.
Flown ORF to BNA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Norfolk to Nashville is 584 miles (940 km), a flight of about 1 hour 55 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Appalachian foothills of Virginia and eastern Tennessee. Notable features include the New River valley (visible as a linear depression running northeast-southwest), the ridge-and-valley topography of the Appalachian system, and the transition from coastal plain to piedmont terrain. The Great Smoky Mountains remain too far south to be visible on this direct westward route, but the general elevation increases noticeably as you progress from the flat Tidewater region toward the Cumberland Plateau.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORF
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Hampton Roads waterway system and the Elizabeth River as the aircraft climbs westward out of Norfolk. You'll see the distinctive confluence of water channels and the urban sprawl of the Norfolk-Virginia Beach metropolitan area receding beneath you.
Landing at BNA
LEFTLeft-side seats offer the best views during descent into Nashville. You'll see the Cumberland River winding through Nashville's downtown and the surrounding rolling terrain of Middle Tennessee as you approach from the northeast.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Norfolk International (ORF) to Nashville International (BNA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Norfolk to Nashville. While takeoff offers interesting water and naval infrastructure views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic and varied scenery—the Cumberland River's distinctive curves, downtown Nashville, and the transition into Tennessee's rolling hill country make for a more visually rewarding flight experience overall.
What can I see during takeoff from Norfolk International in Norfolk?
During takeoff from Norfolk International (ORF), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Hampton Roads waterway system and the Elizabeth River as the aircraft climbs westward out of Norfolk. You'll see the distinctive confluence of water channels and the urban sprawl of the Norfolk-Virginia Beach metropolitan area receding beneath you. Notable sights include: Hampton Roads (the large natural harbor), Elizabeth River, Norfolk Naval Station (visible as a massive industrial complex on the water), Chesapeake Bay to the north.
What can I see when landing at Nashville International in Nashville?
When landing at Nashville International (BNA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer the best views during descent into Nashville. You'll see the Cumberland River winding through Nashville's downtown and the surrounding rolling terrain of Middle Tennessee as you approach from the northeast. Notable sights include: Cumberland River (distinctive serpentine curves through downtown), Nashville's downtown skyline, Percy Priest Lake (large reservoir southeast of the city), the rolling hills of the Cumberland Plateau region.
How long is the flight from Norfolk to Nashville?
The flight from Norfolk International (ORF) to Nashville International (BNA) takes about 1 hour 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 584 miles (940 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Norfolk to Nashville flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Appalachian foothills of Virginia and eastern Tennessee. Notable features include the New River valley (visible as a linear depression running northeast-southwest), the ridge-and-valley topography of the Appalachian system, and the transition from coastal plain to piedmont terrain. The Great Smoky Mountains remain too far south to be visible on this direct westward route, but the general elevation increases noticeably as you progress from the flat Tidewater region toward the Cumberland Plateau.