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DFW destination photo
TPA destination photo

DFWTPA

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a superior view of the Gulf of Mexico coastline, including the famous white-sand beaches of the Florida Panhandle and the scenic entry into Tampa Bay.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Downtown Dallas

Direct views of the Reunion Tower and the Trinity River corridor during the initial climb out of DFW.

⚓

Mobile Bay

A clear view of the Port of Mobile and the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park from cruising altitude.

🏖️

The Emerald Coast

Stunning turquoise waters and white sands stretching from Pensacola through Destin and Panama City Beach.

🌉

Sunshine Skyway Bridge

The iconic cable-stayed bridge spanning Tampa Bay is often visible during the final approach into TPA.

🚢

Tampa Bay Shipping Channels

Watch for large cruise ships and cargo vessels navigating the channels into Port Tampa Bay.

The right side is the premier choice for this route. Sit here for the best views of the Gulf of Mexico. Try to book a window seat behind the wing to capture the contrast between the deep blue Gulf and the bright white sands of the Florida Panhandle. On afternoon flights, be prepared for bright sunlight and consider bringing sunglasses.

Left Side Highlights
6.5
🏙️

North Dallas Suburbs

Aerial views of the sprawling DFW metroplex and Lake Ray Hubbard shortly after departure.

🌊

The Mississippi River

Crossing the massive, winding waterway near Vicksburg, showing the transition from Louisiana to Mississippi.

🌲

Southern Pine Forests

Dense green canopies of the Kisatchie and Bienville National Forests stretching across the deep south.

🐊

Florida Nature Coast

As the plane turns south, view the marshy wetlands and winding rivers of the Chassahowitzka Wildlife Refuge.

Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is better for spotting the geographical boundary of the Mississippi River and the inland lakes of North Florida. During descent, you may catch a glimpse of the University of South Florida campus if the flight path approaches from the north.

Top Activities in Tampa
Route Information

Distance: 1,493 km (928 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 59 min

Departure: DFW (32.896801, -97.038002)

Arrival: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)

Route Type: Domestic

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