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CLE → BUF
Which side of the plane to sit from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (Cleveland) to Buffalo Niagara International Airport (Buffalo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior vantage point for the Lake Erie shoreline, featuring the Cleveland skyline upon departure and the unique geography of Presque Isle State Park mid-flight.
Cleveland Skyline
Aerial views of the Terminal Tower, Key Tower, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame immediately after departure from CLE.
Lake Erie Shoreline
Continuous views of the lake's southern coast, showing the interface between the blue water and the Ohio/Pennsylvania coastline.
Presque Isle State Park
A stunning look at the distinct sandy peninsula arching into Lake Erie near Erie, Pennsylvania.
Buffalo Harbor
Views of the historic Outer Harbor, grain elevators, and the Buffalo Lighthouse during the final descent.
Sit on the left (port side) for the best views of the lake. Afternoon flights provide excellent lighting as the sun is to the south, illuminating the coastline without glare. During winter, look for the dramatic ice patterns forming on the lake surface.
Cuyahoga Valley
The lush, rolling greenery and river valleys of Northeast Ohio visible shortly after takeoff.
Chautauqua Vineyards
The dense patchwork of grape vineyards that define the agricultural landscape of Western New York.
Highmark Stadium
If the flight path approaches from the south, you can spot the home of the Buffalo Bills in Orchard Park.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the sun's glare off the water. It offers a closer look at the rural landscape and the start of the Allegheny Plateau foothills. Watch for the 'Lake Effect' cloud formations that often stack up along the hills south of Buffalo.
Distance: 308 km (191 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 31 min
Departure: CLE (41.4117012024, -81.8498001099)
Arrival: BUF (42.94049835, -78.73220062)
Route Type: Domestic
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