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BHM → TPA
Which side of the plane to sit from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (Birmingham) to Tampa International Airport (Tampa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Gulf of Mexico's coastline as you transition from the Deep South into the Florida peninsula, including the unique topography of the Big Bend region and Tampa Bay.
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Wiregrass Region
View the agricultural patterns and peanut farms of Southeast Alabama and the Florida Panhandle.
Apalachicola Bay
As the plane reaches the coast, see the pristine oyster beds and barrier islands of the Forgotten Coast.
Cedar Key
The cluster of small islands and surrounding salt marshes creates a beautiful pattern in the Gulf waters.
Crystal River
Spot the distinctive spring-fed river systems and coastal inlets known for manatee sightings.
Sunshine Skyway Bridge
If landing from the south, the iconic yellow cables of the Skyway Bridge are visible across the mouth of the bay.
Clearwater Beach
The white sands and high-rise hotels of the Gulf beaches are visible during the final descent into TPA.
The right side is the 'scenic side' for water lovers. For the best views of the Gulf coastline, choose a window seat behind the wing to avoid engine obstruction. Sunset flights on this side are spectacular as the sun dips into the Gulf of Mexico, though you may need sunglasses for the first half of the flight.
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Birmingham Skyline
Catch a glimpse of the Vulcan Statue and the downtown skyline immediately after takeoff from BHM.
Lake Martin
View the expansive blue waters and winding shoreline of one of Alabama's largest reservoirs.
Montgomery
Look for the Alabama State Capitol and the winding Alabama River as you pass the state's capital city.
Ocala National Forest
A vast expanse of sand pines and scrubland visible as the flight enters Central Florida.
Downtown Tampa
On a northern approach, the skyscrapers of downtown and Ybor City are visible just before touchdown.
Sit on the left if you prefer inland views of the Alabama heartland and Central Florida's lake districts. This side is best during morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun, which will be on the right side of the aircraft during the southward journey.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 740 km (460 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 14 min
Departure: BHM (33.56290054, -86.75350189)
Arrival: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)
Route Type: Domestic
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