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CHS → MIA
Which side of the plane to sit from Charleston Air Force Base-International Airport (Charleston) to Miami International Airport (Miami)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning continuous panorama of the Atlantic coastline, featuring historic harbors, the barrier islands of Georgia, and a prime view of the Kennedy Space Center before arriving at the vibrant turquoise waters of South Florida.
Charleston Harbor
Immediately after takeoff, view Fort Sumter and the historic Battery at the confluence of the Ashley and Cooper Rivers.
The Golden Isles
Stunning aerial views of St. Simons and Sea Island along the Georgia coast with their intricate marshland patterns.
Kennedy Space Center
Clear views of the Vehicle Assembly Building and historic launch pads at Cape Canaveral as you track the Florida coast.
The Gulf Stream
Observe the striking color transition between the shallow turquoise coastal waters and the deep indigo of the Gulf Stream.
South Florida Gold Coast
A high-altitude view of the continuous urban sprawl and high-rise beachfronts from West Palm Beach down to Fort Lauderdale.
Miami Beach
On the final approach from the north, see the iconic Art Deco district and the long stretch of white sand along South Beach.
For the best experience, book a morning flight to see the sun reflecting off the Atlantic Ocean. Ensure you have a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Watch for the Cape Canaveral landmarks about 45-50 minutes into the flight. If the plane lands to the south, the left side provides the most iconic views of the Miami skyline and Biscayne Bay.
Lowcountry Marshes
Expansive views of the winding tidal creeks and salt marshes characteristic of southern South Carolina and Georgia.
Lake Okeechobee
The massive 'Inland Sea' of Florida is easily visible, appearing as a giant blue circle in the center of the peninsula.
The Everglades
As the plane descends, view the vast 'River of Grass' wetland ecosystem stretching toward the western horizon.
Hard Rock Stadium
Look for the distinctive white spikes of the Miami Dolphins' stadium during the initial descent into the Miami metro area.
Suburban Grid
Observe the unique canal-front housing developments and master-planned communities typical of South Florida's inland expansion.
The right side is preferable for afternoon or sunset flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun over the ocean. It offers a better view of the Everglades' unique hydrology during the descent. Keep an eye out for the massive circular dike surrounding Lake Okeechobee, which is a primary navigation landmark for pilots on this route.
Distance: 790 km (491 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 19 min
Departure: CHS (32.89860153, -80.04049683)
Arrival: MIA (25.79319953918457, -80.29060363769531)
Route Type: Domestic
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