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CLT → RSW
Which side of the plane to sit from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Charlotte) to Southwest Florida International Airport (Fort Myers)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular aerial views of the Florida Gulf Coast, including the distinct turquoise waters of Tampa Bay and the barrier islands leading into Fort Myers.
Catawba River
Scenic views of the winding river and Lake Wylie shortly after departing Charlotte.
Tampa Bay
On clear days, see the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge and the sprawling St. Petersburg coastline.
Sarasota Beaches
Crystal clear views of Siesta Key and the white sands of the Gulf Coast barrier islands.
Charlotte Harbor
A large, protected inlet featuring complex mangrove systems and small coastal keys.
Sanibel & Captiva
Iconic views of these world-famous shelling islands during the final approach into Fort Myers.
Sit on the right side for afternoon or evening flights to experience stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. Keep your camera ready during the final 15 minutes of the flight for high-contrast views of the coastal reefs and islands.
Charlotte Skyline
Excellent views of Uptown Charlotte's skyscrapers immediately after takeoff from CLT.
Okefenokee Swamp
A massive, dark expanse of wetlands visible near the Georgia and Florida border.
Central Florida Lakes
Dozens of circular freshwater lakes dotting the landscape near the Orlando corridor.
Lake Okeechobee
Florida's largest freshwater lake is often visible in the distance to the southeast during descent.
Everglades Fringe
The northern edge of the 'River of Grass' visible as the plane maneuvers for landing.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side provides a broader view of Florida's interior geography and the massive scale of Lake Okeechobee during the arrival phase into RSW.
Distance: 968 km (601 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 37 min
Departure: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)
Arrival: RSW (26.53619956970215, -81.75520324707031)
Route Type: Domestic
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