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IAD → TPA
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Tampa International Airport (Tampa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior mix of the Appalachian foothills during departure and a breathtaking view of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico during the descent.
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Blue Ridge
The rolling, hazy peaks of the Appalachian Mountains visible to the west.
Charlotte
The impressive 'Uptown' skyline of North Carolina's largest city and major aviation hub.
Georgia Piedmont
The transition from the southern mountains to the flat coastal plains.
Florida Lake District
Thousands of small, circular lakes dotting the central Florida landscape near Orlando.
Tampa Bay
Stunning views of the bay and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge on final approach.
The right side is ideal for sunset flights to catch the colors over the Gulf of Mexico. As you descend into Tampa, look for the clear transition from pine forests to white sand beaches. During a northern approach, this side provides a panoramic view of the downtown Tampa skyline and Raymond James Stadium.
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Richmond
View the James River winding through Virginia's capital shortly after takeoff.
Carolina Coast
On clear days, see the distant break of the Atlantic and the Outer Banks.
Charleston
Spot the distinctive Ravenel Bridge and the historic harbor of South Carolina.
Jacksonville
The St. Johns River snaking through the largest city in Florida by area.
Ocala National Forest
A vast expanse of sand pine scrub and crystal clear springs.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and get better views of the Atlantic coastline. Watch for the St. Johns River as you cross into Florida. This side is also excellent for spotting the launch pads of Cape Canaveral if the flight path is adjusted eastward.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,307 km (812 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 45 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)
Route Type: Domestic
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