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CMH → TPA
Which side of the plane to sit from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (Columbus) to Tampa International Airport (Tampa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior landing experience with stunning views of the Gulf Coast and the vast Atlanta metropolitan area during the mid-flight transit.
Ohio River
The winding curves of the Ohio River marking the border between Ohio and Kentucky shortly after departure.
Smoky Mountains Foothills
Distal views of the hazy blue peaks of the western Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee.
Atlanta Skyline
A clear view of the dense skyscraper clusters of midtown and downtown Atlanta while passing over Georgia.
Gulf of Mexico
The shimmering turquoise waters of the Gulf are visible as the plane descends along the Florida coast.
Sunshine Skyway Bridge
If the flight path loops south of the bay, the iconic yellow cables of the Skyway Bridge are visible over the water.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. During the descent, this side typically offers the best views of the white-sand beaches of Clearwater and St. Petersburg. If landing toward the south, you will have a front-row seat to the coastal transition from land to sea.
Columbus Downtown
Immediate aerial views of the Scioto River and the Columbus city center upon takeoff from CMH.
Appalachian Ridges
The linear ridges and deep valleys of West Virginia and western Virginia dominate the horizon.
Ocala National Forest
A massive expanse of green pine scrub and sand hills as the flight enters central Florida.
Tampa Bay Shoreline
Panoramic views of the eastern edge of the bay and the Port of Tampa during final approach.
Ybor City
The historic red-brick buildings and urban layout of Tampa's Latin Quarter are visible just before touchdown.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is particularly rewarding if the aircraft approaches TPA from the north, as it offers a direct look at the downtown Tampa skyline and the stadium district. Keep an eye out for the distinctive ridge lines of the Appalachian range about 20-30 minutes after departure.
Distance: 1,337 km (831 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 47 min
Departure: CMH (39.998001, -82.891899)
Arrival: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)
Route Type: Domestic
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