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LGA → RSW
Which side of the plane to sit from La Guardia Airport (New York) to Southwest Florida International Airport (Fort Myers)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior vantage point for the Atlantic coastline, featuring the Jersey Shore, the iconic Outer Banks of North Carolina, and the picturesque harbors of the Southeast.
Manhattan Skyline
Upon departure from LGA, the left side often captures the dense skyscrapers of Midtown and Lower Manhattan against the East River.
The Jersey Shore
Enjoy a continuous view of barrier islands and coastal towns like Atlantic City and Cape May as you track south along the coast.
The Outer Banks
A major highlight featuring the thin, sandy ribbons of North Carolina's barrier islands stretching into the Atlantic.
Charleston Harbor
Spot the historic South Carolina coastline and the distinct Ravenel Bridge as the flight path passes over the Lowcountry.
Florida's First Coast
As you enter Florida airspace, look for the historic rooftops of St. Augustine and the sprawling beaches of Jacksonville.
For the best experience, book a morning flight to see the sun rising over the Atlantic Ocean. The morning light provides high contrast for spotting the breakers along the Outer Banks. Be sure to look out early, as the Manhattan view happens within the first 3-5 minutes of takeoff if departing south.
Mid-Atlantic Urban Corridor
Glimpse the sprawling metropolitan areas of Philadelphia, Baltimore, and the distinct layout of Washington D.C. in the distance.
Appalachian Piedmont
View the transition from the coastal plain to the rolling green hills and distant mountain ridges of Virginia and the Carolinas.
Orlando Area Theme Parks
Depending on the specific airway used, you can often spot the massive resort areas and lakes surrounding central Florida.
Lake Okeechobee
Look for Florida's largest freshwater lake, which serves as a massive blue landmark before beginning the descent into Fort Myers.
Southwest Florida Wetlands
As the plane approaches RSW, the right side provides views of the intricate canal systems and cypress preserves of the Gulf Coast.
On late afternoon flights, the right side will be the 'sunny' side, which can be bright; however, it offers spectacular sunset views as you descend into Fort Myers. This side is also better for spotting the unique grid-like development of Cape Coral during the final approach.
Distance: 1,742 km (1,082 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 19 min
Departure: LGA (40.77719879, -73.87259674)
Arrival: RSW (26.53619956970215, -81.75520324707031)
Route Type: Domestic
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