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DSM → PIE
Which side of the plane to sit from Des Moines International Airport (Des Moines) to St Petersburg Clearwater International Airport (St. Petersburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
While the flight crosses the heart of the Midwest, the right side is superior for its approach into PIE, offering stunning views of the Florida Gulf Coast, Clearwater Beach, and the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
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Ozark Foothills
The rolling green terrain and dense forests of the eastern Ozark plateau in southern Missouri.
Tennessee River
Beautiful views of the winding river as it cuts through northern Alabama and Tennessee.
Florida Gulf Coast
The transition from land to the sparkling emerald and turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Clearwater Beach
A bird's-eye view of the world-famous white sand beaches and barrier islands just before landing.
Anclote Key
Look for the historic lighthouse and pristine sandbars of this state park north of Tarpon Springs.
The right side is essential for the scenic 'coastal' approach. In the afternoon, the sun will be behind the plane for most of the journey, providing excellent lighting for photography of the Florida coastline. During descent, watch for the distinct transition from deep Gulf blue to the shallow turquoise of the Intracoastal Waterway.
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Mississippi River
Aerial view of the massive waterway dividing the Midwest, often seen shortly after departure from Des Moines.
St. Louis Skyline
Possible distant view of the Gateway Arch depending on the specific flight corridor over Missouri.
Kentucky Lake
Vast blue reservoirs and the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.
Tampa Bay Urban Area
Extensive views of the urban sprawl and city lights of Tampa and St. Petersburg during the final descent.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harshest sun glare, and look for the intricate patterns of the Tennessee River system during the mid-flight phase.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,813 km (1,127 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 25 min
Departure: DSM (41.53400039672852, -93.66310119628906)
Arrival: PIE (27.91020012, -82.68740082)
Route Type: Domestic
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