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IAH β PBI
Which side of the plane to sit from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston) to Palm Beach International Airport (West Palm Beach)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a panoramic view of the United States Gulf Coast, featuring the intricate Mississippi River Delta and the famous white-sand beaches of the Florida Panhandle before crossing the peninsula.
Mississippi River Delta
Witness the massive, winding 'bird's foot' delta where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico.
New Orleans & Lake Pontchartrain
View the Crescent City tucked between the river and the massive expanse of Lake Pontchartrain.
Emerald Coast
Stunning views of the bright white sands and turquoise waters of Destin and Panama City Beach.
Apalachicola National Forest
A vast carpet of deep green pine forests as the flight path moves inland across North Florida.
Tallahassee
Look for the Florida state capital's skyline nestled among the rolling hills of the panhandle.
Sit on the left for the best coastal landmarks. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be on the opposite side of the aircraft, reducing glare and making the emerald waters of the Florida coast pop. The Mississippi Delta is usually visible about 45 minutes after takeoff.
Offshore Oil Rigs
In the first hour, spot the industrial structures of deep-water oil platforms dotting the Gulf.
Gulf of Mexico Horizon
An endless view of deep blue water, offering a peaceful and vast maritime perspective.
Lake Okeechobee
The 'Inland Sea' of Florida is often visible to the south during the descent into West Palm Beach.
The Everglades
The northern edge of the massive sawgrass marshes and wetlands is visible as you approach the coast.
Palm Beach Estates
Upon final approach, view the luxury mansions and manicured golf courses of the Florida Gold Coast.
The right side is best for those who enjoy the serenity of the open sea and the specific geography of South Floridaβs wetlands during arrival. Be aware that on afternoon flights, this side will face the southern sun, which can be quite intense and may require closing the window shade.
Distance: 1,535 km (954 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 3 min
Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Arrival: PBI (26.68320083618164, -80.09559631347656)
Route Type: Domestic
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