Mississippi River, downtown Memphis skyline, Shelby Farms Park
🛬 Landing at Memphis (MEM)
MEM is best known as FedEx's global superhub, handling more air cargo tonnage than almost any airport in the world, which dwarfs its passenger operations. The passenger terminal is a single consolidated complex that was downsized and modernized after Delta scaled back its hub here in the 2010s.
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About This Airport
Which side of the plane has the best views landing at Memphis International (MEM)?
When landing at Memphis International (MEM), sit on the Right side for the best views. Landing on runway 36L (northbound), you'll be descending over the Mississippi River floodplain to the west and southwest of the airport. The right side offers the best views of the river's meanders and the downtown Memphis skyline as you approach from the south. The left side faces inland terrain with fewer distinctive features during final approach. Notable sights include: Mississippi River (major meander visible during descent), downtown Memphis skyline (Pyramid arena and tall buildings), Shelby Farms Park (large green space east of downtown), Wolf River (tributary confluence visible near airport).
What can I see when arriving at Memphis?
Arriving at Memphis International in Memphis, passengers on the Right side enjoy views of Mississippi River (major meander visible during descent), downtown Memphis skyline (Pyramid arena and tall buildings), Shelby Farms Park (large green space east of downtown), Wolf River (tributary confluence visible near airport). Landing on runway 36L (northbound), you'll be descending over the Mississippi River floodplain to the west and southwest of the airport. The right side offers the best views of the river's meanders and the downtown Memphis skyline as you approach from the south. The left side faces inland terrain with fewer distinctive features during final approach.
What factors affect the best window seat landing at Memphis International?
The best window seat landing at Memphis International (MEM) depends on several factors: the approach path and runway in use, geographic features around Memphis (mountains, coastlines, city skylines), weather conditions, and time of day. Morning and evening arrivals often offer the best lighting.