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CAK → TPA
Which side of the plane to sit from Akron Canton Regional Airport (Akron) to Tampa International Airport (Tampa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning view of the Appalachian ridge-and-valley formations early in the flight and provides the most iconic view of Downtown Tampa and Hillsborough Bay during the final approach.
Appalachian Ridges
Geometric patterns of the ridge-and-valley province in West Virginia and Virginia are most prominent on this side.
Piedmont Plateau
Rolling hills and dense forests of the Carolinas provide a lush green landscape mid-flight.
Okefenokee Swamp
Aerial views of the massive blackwater swamp near the Georgia-Florida border reveal unique wetlands and marsh textures.
St. Johns River
Spot the winding blue path of Florida's longest river as it snakes through the northern part of the state.
Downtown Tampa
On approach to TPA, this side typically provides a direct view of the city skyline, Sparkman Wharf, and the Port of Tampa.
For the best experience, choose a morning flight to see the sunrise illuminate the Appalachian peaks. On descent, keep your camera ready as the plane turns over Hillsborough Bay; the left side usually gets a clear shot of the urban center and the University of Tampa's minarets.
Ohio River Valley
Early in the flight, observe the winding Ohio River and the industrial landscapes of the tristate area.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Views of the western slopes of the Blue Ridge chain, offering deep greens and blues depending on the haze.
Central Georgia
A patchwork of agricultural fields and orchards, showcasing the heart of the Deep South's farming regions.
Gulf Coast Horizon
As the flight crosses into Florida, look toward the horizon to see the glittering waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Sunshine Skyway Bridge
During the final approach into TPA from the south, the iconic cable-stayed bridge is often visible stretching across the mouth of Tampa Bay.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the eastern sun. If the flight path approaches from the south, look for the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the long span of the Howard Frankland Bridge as you enter the final pattern.
Distance: 1,442 km (896 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 55 min
Departure: CAK (40.91609954833984, -81.44219970703125)
Arrival: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)
Route Type: Domestic
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