While left offers good departure scenery over Ireland's coast, right provides superior views on the longer, more visually rewarding descent into Cincinnati. The Ohio River valley and city approach are more dramatic and sustained than the brief Atlantic crossing views.
Flown SNN to CVG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Shannon to Cincinnati is 3,586 miles (5,771 km), a flight of about 7 hours 45 minutes.
Transatlantic crossing over open Atlantic (minimal landmarks for 4–5 hours); as you approach North America, Newfoundland and Labrador coastline becomes visible on the left (north) side around 2–3 hours before landing; the Great Lakes region (particularly Lake Erie) may be visible on the right (south) side during final descent into the Ohio Valley; the Appalachian foothills begin to appear as subtle terrain texture in the final 1–2 hours of flight.
Great circle distance and headings ›
.jpeg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from SNN
LEFTLeft side offers views of the Irish coastline and Atlantic approaches. Shannon sits on the estuary, and climbing westward over the Atlantic provides clear water views before heading transatlantic.
Landing at CVG
RIGHTRight side captures the Ohio River valley and Cincinnati's urban sprawl as you descend. The river's distinctive curves and the city's position along it are striking from altitude, especially during final approach from the northwest.
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 Shannon (SNN) to Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International (CVG)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Shannon to Cincinnati. While left offers good departure scenery over Ireland's coast, right provides superior views on the longer, more visually rewarding descent into Cincinnati. The Ohio River valley and city approach are more dramatic and sustained than the brief Atlantic crossing views.
What can I see during takeoff from Shannon in Shannon?
During takeoff from Shannon (SNN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the Irish coastline and Atlantic approaches. Shannon sits on the estuary, and climbing westward over the Atlantic provides clear water views before heading transatlantic. Notable sights include: Shannon Estuary (immediate), Dingle Peninsula to the south, Clare coastline, Atlantic Ocean.
What can I see when landing at Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International in Cincinnati?
When landing at Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International (CVG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures the Ohio River valley and Cincinnati's urban sprawl as you descend. The river's distinctive curves and the city's position along it are striking from altitude, especially during final approach from the northwest. Notable sights include: Ohio River (multiple meanders), Cincinnati skyline and downtown district, Little Miami River confluence, surrounding forested hills of southwestern Ohio.
How long is the flight from Shannon to Cincinnati?
The flight from Shannon (SNN) to Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International (CVG) takes about 7 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 3,586 miles (5,771 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Shannon to Cincinnati flight path pass over?
Transatlantic crossing over open Atlantic (minimal landmarks for 4–5 hours); as you approach North America, Newfoundland and Labrador coastline becomes visible on the left (north) side around 2–3 hours before landing; the Great Lakes region (particularly Lake Erie) may be visible on the right (south) side during final descent into the Ohio Valley; the Appalachian foothills begin to appear as subtle terrain texture in the final 1–2 hours of flight.