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GFK → SFB
Which side of the plane to sit from Grand Forks International Airport (Grand Forks) to Orlando Sanford International Airport (Sanford)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a more diverse visual experience, featuring the meandering Red River, the majestic Mississippi River crossings, and a scenic approach over the St. Johns River and the Florida coastline.
Red River of the North
Watch the serpentine curves of the river that forms the border between North Dakota and Minnesota shortly after takeoff.
Midwestern Metro Areas
Aerial views of major hubs like Minneapolis or St. Louis depending on the specific flight corridor.
Appalachian Foothills
The rolling, hazy blue ridges of the southern Appalachian range become visible as you cross into the southeastern US.
St. Johns River
The massive north-flowing river serves as a landmark during the descent into the Sanford/Orlando area.
Atlantic Coastline
On clear days, the distant blue of the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway are visible to the east.
Sit on the left for morning departures to witness the sunrise over the Midwest plains. During the final descent into SFB, the left side typically offers better views of the sprawling Florida wetlands and the St. Johns River. Ensure your window is clear of frost early on to capture the Red River's unique geography.
Great Plains Mosaic
The vast, geometric patchwork of agricultural fields across Iowa and Missouri creates a stunning earth-art effect.
The Ozark Plateau
Look for the heavily forested, rugged terrain of southern Missouri and northern Arkansas.
Tennessee River
Large, wide bends of the Tennessee River and its associated reservoirs are prominent features mid-flight.
Ocala National Forest
A deep green expanse of sand pines and scrubland as the plane enters Central Florida.
Florida Chain of Lakes
Dozens of circular, spring-fed lakes dot the landscape as you approach the destination.
The right side is the best choice for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun. It offers a great perspective on the transition from the flat northern plains to the hilly Ozark region. Keep an eye out for Lake Apopka, one of Florida's largest lakes, during the arrival sequence.
Distance: 2,533 km (1,574 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 23 min
Departure: GFK (47.949299, -97.176102)
Arrival: SFB (28.7775993347168, -81.23750305175781)
Route Type: Domestic
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