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CID destination photo
PIE destination photo

CIDPIE

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side provides a spectacular aerial entry over the Gulf of Mexico and the pristine white sands of Clearwater Beach during the final descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🛶

Land Between the Lakes

Stunning views of the massive Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley reservoirs in western Kentucky and Tennessee.

🌲

Deep South Forests

Overhead views of the vast pine plantations and national forests throughout Alabama and southern Georgia.

🏖️

The Emerald Coast

The first sighting of the Gulf of Mexico's turquoise waters as the flight crosses the Florida Panhandle coastline.

🏝️

Clearwater Beach

An iconic view of Pier 60 and the white quartz sands of the barrier islands just before touchdown.

🌇

Gulf Horizon

Uninterrupted views of the Gulf of Mexico, which are particularly breathtaking during late afternoon or sunset flights.

The right side is the clear winner for the scenic 'money shot' of the Gulf beaches. For the best experience, book an afternoon flight to catch the sun reflecting off the water. The approach into PIE often involves a bank over the Gulf, providing a panoramic view of Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🌊

Mississippi River Crossing

Early in the flight, observe the winding path of the Mississippi River as you transition from Iowa into Illinois.

🏙️

Nashville Basin

Potential views of the Cumberland River and the sprawling metropolitan area of Nashville, Tennessee.

🏞️

Appalachian Foothills

Distant views of the rolling green ridges and dense forests of the southern Appalachian range to the east.

💧

Florida Lake District

As you enter Florida airspace, look for the thousands of small, circular sinkhole lakes dotting the central peninsula.

⚓

Old Tampa Bay

Final approach views of the northern reaches of Tampa Bay and the Courtney Campbell Causeway.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. This side offers better views of the inland geography and the urban expansion of the Tampa Bay area. Keep an eye out for the distinctive lattice of Florida's inland waterways during the descent.

Top Activities in St. Petersburg
Route Information

Distance: 1,756 km (1,091 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 20 min

Departure: CID (41.88470077514648, -91.71080017089844)

Arrival: PIE (27.91020012, -82.68740082)

Route Type: Domestic

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