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ATL → RSW
Which side of the plane to sit from Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta) to Southwest Florida International Airport (Fort Myers)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point of the Florida Gulf Coast, including the Big Bend, Tampa Bay, and the white-sand beaches of the West Coast during the descent.
Gulf of Mexico Coastline
Enjoy continuous views of the turquoise Gulf waters and the unique 'Big Bend' region where the Florida peninsula curves.
Tampa Bay
A major highlight featuring the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and the sprawling metropolitan areas of Tampa and St. Petersburg.
Sarasota & Barrier Islands
The flight path typically tracks just offshore, offering bird's-eye views of Siesta Key, Longboat Key, and their famous white sands.
Charlotte Harbor
As you prepare for landing, the intricate network of islands and mangroves near Punta Gorda and Pine Island comes into view.
Book the right side for afternoon or evening flights to experience stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. To see the Tampa Bay area and the coastal islands clearly, try to secure a seat in front of the wing to prevent the engine heat haze from distorting your photos during the descent.
Atlanta Skyline
Excellent views of downtown Atlanta and the Mercedes-Benz Stadium immediately following departure from ATL.
Okefenokee Swamp
As the flight crosses the Georgia-Florida border, you can often spot the dark, mirrored waters of this massive blackwater swamp.
Central Florida Theme Parks
On clear days, the vast complexes of Walt Disney World and Universal Studios are visible in the distance east of the flight path.
Lake Okeechobee
Looking southeast during the descent, the massive 'Inland Sea' of Florida is visible as a prominent geographic landmark.
Sit on the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is best for viewing the inland geography of central Florida and the vast agricultural lands north of the Everglades. During the initial climb, you get a better view of the urban sprawl of South Atlanta.
Distance: 830 km (516 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 23 min
Departure: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)
Arrival: RSW (26.53619956970215, -81.75520324707031)
Route Type: Domestic
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