Right side captures the most dramatic scenery: coastal features at takeoff (Hampton Roads and Chesapeake Bay) and the Dallas skyline and White Rock Lake on approach. The left side during takeoff shows only inland terrain, while left on landing misses the water features.
Flown ORF to DAL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Norfolk to Dallas is 1,201 miles (1,932 km), a flight of about 3 hours 45 minutes.
The flight path westward crosses the Appalachian foothills (visible as low ridges and valleys in West Virginia and eastern Kentucky), the Ohio River valley, and transitions into the Mississippi River basin. The terrain gradually flattens from the Appalachian region into the Cumberland Plateau, then into the Mississippi embayment. No major mountain ranges are prominently visible at cruise altitude on this route, but the topographic transition from eastern highlands to central plains is gradual and subtle from 30,000 feet.
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpeg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORF
RIGHTRight side offers views of the Hampton Roads waterway system and the Atlantic coastline as the aircraft climbs out westward. You'll see the confluence of the James, Nansemond, and Elizabeth Rivers, plus the Norfolk naval facilities and the Chesapeake Bay entrance.
Landing at DAL
LEFTLeft side provides views of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and the Trinity River as you descend into Love Field. You'll see downtown Dallas's skyline, White Rock Lake, and the urban sprawl that makes the approach visually interesting.
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 Norfolk International (ORF) to Dallas Love Fld (DAL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Norfolk to Dallas. Right side captures the most dramatic scenery: coastal features at takeoff (Hampton Roads and Chesapeake Bay) and the Dallas skyline and White Rock Lake on approach. The left side during takeoff shows only inland terrain, while left on landing misses the water features.
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 offers views of the Hampton Roads waterway system and the Atlantic coastline as the aircraft climbs out westward. You'll see the confluence of the James, Nansemond, and Elizabeth Rivers, plus the Norfolk naval facilities and the Chesapeake Bay entrance. Notable sights include: Hampton Roads harbor and naval station, Chesapeake Bay, Atlantic coastline, Elizabeth River waterfront.
What can I see when landing at Dallas Love Fld in Dallas?
When landing at Dallas Love Fld (DAL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side provides views of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and the Trinity River as you descend into Love Field. You'll see downtown Dallas's skyline, White Rock Lake, and the urban sprawl that makes the approach visually interesting. Notable sights include: Downtown Dallas skyline, White Rock Lake, Trinity River, Dallas-Fort Worth urban corridor.
How long is the flight from Norfolk to Dallas?
The flight from Norfolk International (ORF) to Dallas Love Fld (DAL) takes about 3 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,201 miles (1,932 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Norfolk to Dallas flight path pass over?
The flight path westward crosses the Appalachian foothills (visible as low ridges and valleys in West Virginia and eastern Kentucky), the Ohio River valley, and transitions into the Mississippi River basin. The terrain gradually flattens from the Appalachian region into the Cumberland Plateau, then into the Mississippi embayment. No major mountain ranges are prominently visible at cruise altitude on this route, but the topographic transition from eastern highlands to central plains is gradual and subtle from 30,000 feet.