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CUN → MCO
Which side of the plane to sit from Cancún International Airport (Cancun) to Orlando International Airport (Orlando)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides the most iconic views, starting with a panoramic sweep of the Cancun Hotel Zone and turquoise reefs upon departure, followed by the vast Florida Everglades and Lake Okeechobee during the descent into Orlando.
Cancun Hotel Zone
The famous '7' shaped island with its white sand beaches and high-rise resorts is best viewed from this side.
Nichupté Lagoon
The vast lagoon system separating mainland Cancun from the Caribbean Sea, showing a stark contrast in water colors.
The Everglades
As you enter Florida airspace, view the sprawling, marshy wetlands that dominate the southern part of the state.
Lake Okeechobee
The largest freshwater lake in Florida, looking like an inland sea from your cruising altitude.
Orlando Area Landmarks
During the approach into MCO, you may spot the sprawling complexes of the major theme parks and the 'finger' canals of suburban Florida.
The right side is superior for morning flights as the sun will be behind you, providing perfectly lit views of the Cancun coastline. During the descent, look for the unique patterns of Florida's residential water management systems and the massive 'Inland Sea' of Lake Okeechobee.
Isla Mujeres
A clear view of the narrow island and its surrounding coral reefs immediately after departing CUN.
Gulf of Mexico
The deep blue expanse of the Gulf, where you can often spot cargo ships and tankers in transit.
Florida West Coast
Distant views of the white sands near Sarasota and St. Petersburg as the plane crosses the coastline.
Tampa Bay
On clear days, the distinct shape of Tampa Bay and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge are visible to the west.
Central Florida Lakes
The final descent offers views of the countless circular lakes that dot the landscape around the Orlando area.
Choose this side for late afternoon or evening flights to catch a spectacular sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff to capture the northern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula before the plane heads out over open water.
Distance: 996 km (619 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 40 min
Departure: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)
Arrival: MCO (28.429399490356445, -81.30899810791016)
Route Type: International
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