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LGW → TPA
Which side of the plane to sit from London Gatwick Airport (London) to Tampa International Airport (Tampa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side (Port) is generally superior for this westbound transatlantic crossing, offering stunning views of the US East Coast and the barrier islands of North Carolina and Florida during the descent.
English Channel Coast
Aerial views of the iconic white cliffs and the southern coastline of England shortly after takeoff from Gatwick.
Southern Irish Coast
Clear views of the rugged cliffs and emerald green fields of County Cork and Kerry before heading out over the Atlantic.
Nova Scotia Shoreline
First landfall in North America often reveals the intricate bays and rocky inlets of the Canadian Maritimes.
Mid-Atlantic Megalopolis
Distant but recognizable views of New York City, Philadelphia, and the glowing lights of the I-95 corridor.
The Outer Banks
The dramatic, thin ribbon of sand dunes and barrier islands stretching along the coast of North Carolina.
Florida Space Coast
As you descend, catch a glimpse of the Kennedy Space Center and the sprawling Cape Canaveral launch pads.
Sit on the left for the best views of the US shoreline. Since this is a westbound flight, the sun will be on the left (south) side of the plane for much of the journey; use your window shade to manage glare during the mid-flight ocean crossing. Arrival in Tampa often follows a path over the Florida peninsula, making the left side ideal for spotting the Sunshine Skyway Bridge if the approach is from the south.
Greater London
Depending on departure direction, views of the sprawling London suburbs and the North Downs.
Greenland Icecap
On more northerly winter tracks, the jagged mountains and massive glaciers of southern Greenland may be visible.
Canadian Wilderness
Vast stretches of untouched coniferous forests and thousands of lakes across Newfoundland and Labrador.
Appalachian Mountains
Inland views of the rolling, tree-covered ridges of the Blue Ridge and Appalachian mountain ranges.
Gulf of Mexico
During the final approach into Tampa, views of the turquoise waters and white sands of the Florida Gulf Coast.
The right side is excellent if the flight path takes a more northerly 'Great Circle' route, increasing your chances of seeing the snowy peaks of Greenland. It is also the 'cooler' side for photography as it faces away from the direct sun. For the landing in TPA, if the wind is from the north, you may get a great view of Clearwater Beach and the Gulf islands before touchdown.
Distance: 7,111 km (4,419 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 22 min
Departure: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)
Arrival: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)
Route Type: International
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