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MCO → SJO
Which side of the plane to sit from Orlando International Airport (Orlando) to Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled view of the Central American volcanic arc and the massive Lake Nicaragua, providing a dramatic landscape before landing in the Central Valley.
Florida Everglades
The vast, intricate wetland patterns of southern Florida visible shortly after takeoff from Orlando.
Lake Nicaragua
The largest lake in Central America, featuring the unique sight of Ometepe's twin volcanic peaks rising from the water.
Arenal Volcano
A distant but iconic view of Costa Rica's most famous perfectly conical volcano.
Poás Volcano
Look directly into one of the world's largest active craters, often venting steam, during the descent into SJO.
Alajuela Valley
A panoramic view of the bustling city and the surrounding mountains as the plane lines up for the runway.
The right side is the best for geography lovers. Keep your camera ready as you cross Nicaragua to capture Ometepe Island. For afternoon flights, this side is preferable as the sun will be on the opposite side, reducing glare on the window while you view the volcanic range.
Florida Keys
Stunning aerial views of the island chain and coral reefs shortly after departing the Florida peninsula.
Deep Caribbean
The transition from the shallow turquoise waters of the coast to the deep indigo of the Caribbean Sea.
Tortuguero Coastline
The dense, green rainforests and winding canals of Costa Rica's Caribbean coast as you cross the border.
Irazú Volcano
The highest active volcano in Costa Rica, often visible above the clouds during the final approach.
Central Highlands
Lush, emerald-green coffee plantations terraced along the mountainsides near the airport.
Choose the left side for morning flights to enjoy a spectacular Caribbean sunrise. This side also provides a closer look at the towering Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes if the flight path approaches San Jose from the northeast.
Distance: 2,072 km (1,287 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 46 min
Departure: MCO (28.429399490356445, -81.30899810791016)
Arrival: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Route Type: International
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