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CLE → RSW
Which side of the plane to sit from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (Cleveland) to Southwest Florida International Airport (Fort Myers)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the Appalachian ridges during the cruise and provides stunning coastal views of the Gulf of Mexico and barrier islands during the final approach into Fort Myers.
Ohio River Valley
View the winding path of the Ohio River as you transition from the Midwest into the Appalachian foothills.
Smoky Mountains
Deep ridges and dense forest canopies of the Great Smoky Mountains are prominent during the southern cruise.
Gulf of Mexico
As the flight nears Fort Myers, the deep blue waters of the Gulf come into view during the standard westward approach pattern.
Sanibel & Captiva Islands
Incredible aerial views of the famous barrier islands and Pine Sound just minutes before touchdown at RSW.
This is the preferred side for sunset flights to avoid direct glare while enjoying golden hour over the Gulf. If the flight path approaches RSW from the west, you will have a front-row seat to the white sand beaches of Sanibel Island. Keep your window shade open during the final 20 minutes for the best coastal scenery.
Cleveland Skyline
Clear views of downtown Cleveland, Progressive Field, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame immediately after departure.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The eastern edges of the Appalachian range provide rolling green and blue vistas throughout the mid-flight segment.
Lake Okeechobee
Florida's largest freshwater lake is frequently visible to the southeast during the initial descent phase.
Northern Everglades
The vast, shimmering wetlands of the Florida interior are visible as the plane turns toward the Gulf coast.
Sit on this side for early morning flights to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Atlantic horizon. This side is also better for spotting the expansive interior water systems of Florida, including the Kissimmee River basin, about 30-40 minutes before landing.
Distance: 1,654 km (1,028 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 12 min
Departure: CLE (41.4117012024, -81.8498001099)
Arrival: RSW (26.53619956970215, -81.75520324707031)
Route Type: Domestic
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