The takeoff views of the Great Smoky Mountains are more dramatic and visually distinctive than the landing views. While the Mississippi River approach is geographically significant, the mountain scenery during climb-out offers superior scenic value for most passengers.
Flown TYS to JAN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Knoxville to Jackson is 424 miles (682 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Tennessee, passing over the Cumberland Plateau and its dissected terrain, then transitions into the flatter landscape of northern Mississippi. The Tennessee River valley may be visible on the left during cruise, and the transition from Appalachian topography to Mississippi Delta flatlands is the most notable geographic shift along the route.
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpeg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from TYS
RIGHTRight side offers views of the Great Smoky Mountains as the aircraft climbs southwestward. The ridgelines and valleys of the Smokies are clearly visible during the initial climb-out from Knoxville, providing dramatic topography.
Landing at JAN
LEFTLeft side provides views of the Mississippi River and the Pearl River as the aircraft descends toward Jackson. The river systems are prominent landmarks during approach, and the left bank offers better sightlines to the river's meanders and the surrounding floodplain.
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 Mc Ghee Tyson (TYS) to Jackson International (JAN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Knoxville to Jackson. The takeoff views of the Great Smoky Mountains are more dramatic and visually distinctive than the landing views. While the Mississippi River approach is geographically significant, the mountain scenery during climb-out offers superior scenic value for most passengers.
What can I see during takeoff from Mc Ghee Tyson in Knoxville?
During takeoff from Mc Ghee Tyson (TYS), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers views of the Great Smoky Mountains as the aircraft climbs southwestward. The ridgelines and valleys of the Smokies are clearly visible during the initial climb-out from Knoxville, providing dramatic topography. Notable sights include: Great Smoky Mountains National Park (ridgelines to the southeast), Tennessee Valley (urban sprawl of Knoxville below), Clinch River (winding through the valley), foothills of the Cumberland Plateau (distant to the west).
What can I see when landing at Jackson International in Jackson?
When landing at Jackson International (JAN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side provides views of the Mississippi River and the Pearl River as the aircraft descends toward Jackson. The river systems are prominent landmarks during approach, and the left bank offers better sightlines to the river's meanders and the surrounding floodplain. Notable sights include: Mississippi River (major waterway to the west), Pearl River (tributary visible during descent), Jackson urban area (grid pattern of streets and buildings), Mississippi Delta flatlands (agricultural landscape).
How long is the flight from Knoxville to Jackson?
The flight from Mc Ghee Tyson (TYS) to Jackson International (JAN) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 424 miles (682 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Knoxville to Jackson flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Tennessee, passing over the Cumberland Plateau and its dissected terrain, then transitions into the flatter landscape of northern Mississippi. The Tennessee River valley may be visible on the left during cruise, and the transition from Appalachian topography to Mississippi Delta flatlands is the most notable geographic shift along the route.