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LCK → PIE
Which side of the plane to sit from Rickenbacker International Airport (Columbus) to St Petersburg Clearwater International Airport (St. Petersburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior for this North-to-South route, offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico coastline and the famous white-sand beaches of Clearwater during the descent.
Cumberland Plateau
View the dramatic escarpments and dense forests of the Tennessee wilderness shortly after takeoff.
Lookout Mountain
Spot the historic ridge where Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia meet near the city of Chattanooga.
Florida Gulf Coastline
As the plane enters Florida airspace, the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico become visible along the right horizon.
Anclote Key
See the pristine, uninhabited barrier islands and lighthouse just north of the Clearwater area during descent.
Clearwater Beach
Incredible views of the world-famous white sands and beachfront resorts just minutes before touchdown.
The right side is spectacular for sunset flights, as the sun dips below the Gulf horizon. During the final approach, keep your camera ready for the contrast between the deep blue Gulf and the bright white sands of Honeymoon Island and Clearwater Beach. Look for the distinct turquoise 'flats' in the shallow coastal waters.
Ohio River Meanders
Early in the flight, observe the winding path of the Ohio River as you cross into the mountainous terrain of the South.
Appalachian Ridge
Views of the rolling Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains extending toward the eastern horizon during the mid-flight cruise.
Atlanta Metro Glimpse
Potential distant views of the sprawling Atlanta metropolitan area and Lake Lanier's vast shoreline.
Sunshine Skyway Bridge
During the descent into PIE, look for the iconic yellow cables of the Skyway Bridge spanning the mouth of Tampa Bay.
Tampa Bay Activity
A bird's-eye view of the shipping channels and numerous sailboats dotting the turquoise waters of the bay.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and to see the morning sun illuminating the Appalachian peaks. It is also the best side for viewing the urban layout of St. Petersburg and the Skyway Bridge if the pilot approaches from the south.
Distance: 1,324 km (823 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 46 min
Departure: LCK (39.813801, -82.927803)
Arrival: PIE (27.91020012, -82.68740082)
Route Type: Domestic
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