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GRR → MCO
Which side of the plane to sit from Gerald R. Ford International Airport (Grand Rapids) to Orlando International Airport (Orlando)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most iconic views upon arrival, including the expansive Orlando theme park complexes and the unique lake-dotted landscape of central Florida, especially during evening sunsets.
Midwest Patchwork
Intricate geometric patterns of Indiana and Ohio farmlands immediately after departure.
Louisville & Nashville
Common flight corridors provide views of these major hubs and the rolling hills of middle Tennessee.
Atlanta Skyline
The massive urban footprint of Atlanta and the world's busiest airport are often visible from cruise altitude.
Orlando Theme Parks
Look for the iconic structures of Walt Disney World and Universal Studios during the final approach phase.
Lake District
The thousands of circular sinkhole lakes that characterize the central Florida landscape near the destination.
Sit on the right for evening flights to enjoy the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico in the distance. This side is typically superior for seeing the Disney World property if the flight approaches MCO from the north or west.
Ohio River Valley
Aerial views of the winding Ohio River and the urban sprawl of Columbus or Cincinnati.
Appalachian Foothills
The textured, forested ridges of eastern Kentucky and Tennessee providing deep green summer views.
Atlantic Coastline
Glimpses of the Florida coast and the St. Johns River as the plane begins its southern descent.
Space Coast Glimpse
On clear days, the distant structures of Kennedy Space Center are visible to the east during the approach.
The left side is optimal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. During the descent, keep an eye out for the distinct transition from the Georgia forests to the coastal marshlands of northern Florida.
Distance: 1,651 km (1,026 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 12 min
Departure: GRR (42.88079834, -85.52279663)
Arrival: MCO (28.429399490356445, -81.30899810791016)
Route Type: Domestic
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