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GRR → TPA
Which side of the plane to sit from Gerald R. Ford International Airport (Grand Rapids) to Tampa International Airport (Tampa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior coastal views as the aircraft approaches the Gulf of Mexico and descends over the white sand beaches of the Florida Suncoast.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
Immediate views of the West Michigan sand dunes and the vast blue expanse of Lake Michigan upon takeoff.
Chicago Distance View
On clear days, the Sears Tower and Chicago skyline are often visible across the lake to the west.
Tennessee River
The winding, serpentine path of the Tennessee River as it snakes through the valley region.
Gulf of Mexico
Dramatic transition from land to the turquoise waters of the Gulf as the plane maneuvers for the Tampa approach.
Anclote Key
The pristine, undeveloped white sand islands of the Anclote Key Preserve State Park.
Clearwater & St. Pete
Aerial perspective of the famous Pinellas County beaches and the sprawling Tampa Bay bridges.
The right side is essential for the scenic 'Bay Visual' approach into TPA. For evening flights, you will be treated to a spectacular sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. Keep your camera ready as the plane crosses the coastline near Tarpon Springs or Clearwater.
Indianapolis Skyline
Clear view of the 'Circle City' and the Lucas Oil Stadium as you traverse central Indiana.
Appalachian Foothills
The rolling green ridges of eastern Tennessee and northern Georgia provide texture to the landscape.
Atlanta Hub
Occasional distant views of the world's busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson, while passing over Georgia.
Central Florida Lakes
The intricate network of hundreds of freshwater lakes scattered across the Florida interior during descent.
Choose the left side for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise over the Appalachian horizon. This side is better for seeing the dense urban centers of the South, but be prepared for more glare during the early hours.
Distance: 1,679 km (1,043 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 14 min
Departure: GRR (42.88079834, -85.52279663)
Arrival: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)
Route Type: Domestic
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