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CID → PIE
Which side of the plane to sit from The Eastern Iowa Airport (Cedar Rapids) to St Petersburg Clearwater International Airport (St. Petersburg)?
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.
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.
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.
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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