Both sides score equally at 2.0 due to the short flight duration (1 hour) over flat Midwest terrain with minimal dramatic geography. However, the left side edges ahead for takeoff scenery—the Mississippi River and St. Louis riverfront provide more visual interest during departure than Columbus's approach offers during landing. For a passenger prioritizing the full flight experience, left is marginally preferable.
Flown STL to CMH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
St. Louis to Columbus is 408 miles (657 km), a flight of about 1 hour 5 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Ohio farmland and the Miami River valley. No significant mountains, lakes, or dramatic terrain features are visible at cruise altitude. The landscape remains predominantly flat agricultural land with scattered small towns and road networks. The Ohio River lies to the south but remains outside the typical flight corridor.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from STL
LEFTLeft side (north) offers a brief view of the Mississippi River and St. Louis riverfront during initial climb before the aircraft turns eastward. Right side faces inland terrain with no distinctive features during departure.
Landing at CMH
RIGHTRight side (south) provides views of Columbus's urban core and the Scioto River during the final approach and landing sequence. Left side faces open farmland and suburban sprawl with minimal visual interest.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Lambert St Louis International (STL) to Port Columbus International (CMH)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from St. Louis to Columbus. Both sides score equally at 2.0 due to the short flight duration (1 hour) over flat Midwest terrain with minimal dramatic geography. However, the left side edges ahead for takeoff scenery—the Mississippi River and St. Louis riverfront provide more visual interest during departure than Columbus's approach offers during landing. For a passenger prioritizing the full flight experience, left is marginally preferable.
What can I see during takeoff from Lambert St Louis International in St. Louis?
During takeoff from Lambert St Louis International (STL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side (north) offers a brief view of the Mississippi River and St. Louis riverfront during initial climb before the aircraft turns eastward. Right side faces inland terrain with no distinctive features during departure. Notable sights include: Mississippi River, Gateway Arch area, St. Louis urban core, Illinois floodplain.
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. Right side (south) provides views of Columbus's urban core and the Scioto River during the final approach and landing sequence. Left side faces open farmland and suburban sprawl with minimal visual interest. Notable sights include: Scioto River, downtown Columbus skyline, Port Columbus International Airport, suburban Columbus neighborhoods.
How long is the flight from St. Louis to Columbus?
The flight from Lambert St Louis International (STL) to Port Columbus International (CMH) takes about 1 hour 5 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 408 miles (657 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the St. Louis to Columbus flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Ohio farmland and the Miami River valley. No significant mountains, lakes, or dramatic terrain features are visible at cruise altitude. The landscape remains predominantly flat agricultural land with scattered small towns and road networks. The Ohio River lies to the south but remains outside the typical flight corridor.