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BWI destination photo
TPA destination photo

BWITPA

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior vantage point for the Chesapeake Bay shortly after takeoff and the transition along the Atlantic coastline, providing expansive water views and the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge upon arrival.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Chesapeake Bay

A stunning aerial view of the nation's largest estuary and the iconic Bay Bridge immediately after departure.

⚓

Norfolk Naval Base

Spot the massive fleet and geometric piers of the world's largest naval station near the Virginia coast.

🏖️

The Outer Banks

Distant views of the thin, sandy barrier islands of North Carolina separating the Sound from the Atlantic.

🏰

Charleston Peninsula

Look for the historic battery and the white cables of the Ravenel Bridge over the Cooper River.

🌉

Sunshine Skyway Bridge

On final descent, catch the striking yellow cables of this massive bridge spanning the mouth of Tampa Bay.

Book the left side for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise over the water. This side is also best for seeing the Maryland shoreline transition into the Virginia Capes. During the final 20 minutes, watch for the shift from green pine forests to the turquoise waters of the Gulf coast.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏛️

Washington D.C. Skyline

Depending on the departure path, look out for the National Mall and the Potomac River basin to the west.

⛰️

Piedmont Plateau

Rolling hills and dense deciduous forests that define the geography of the inland Mid-Atlantic.

💧

Lake Marion

A massive, shimmering reservoir in South Carolina that provides a distinct landmark mid-flight.

🎢

Central Florida Lakes

As the plane descends, view thousands of small, circular lakes that characterize the karst topography of Florida.

🏙️

Downtown Tampa

Get a close-up look at the high-rise buildings and the Hillsborough River if the plane approaches from the south.

The right side is better for late afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. It offers a more 'land-based' view of the Southern United States. Keep an eye out for the Orlando area theme parks in the distance about 30 minutes before landing.

Top Activities in Tampa
Route Information

Distance: 1,358 km (844 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 49 min

Departure: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)

Arrival: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)

Route Type: Domestic

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