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MDW → TPA
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago) to Tampa International Airport (Tampa)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer interesting views, the right side is preferred for its views of the Tennessee River Valley and the spectacular coastal approach into Tampa over the Gulf of Mexico.
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Nashville
Direct views of the Cumberland River and the downtown skyline of Music City.
Gulf Coastline
Beautiful transition from the deep blue of the Gulf of Mexico to the turquoise waters of the Florida shelf.
Clearwater Beach
Pristine white sand beaches and barrier islands visible as the aircraft banks for its final approach.
Sunshine Skyway Bridge
The iconic yellow-cabled bridge spanning the mouth of Tampa Bay is often visible during southern arrival patterns.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness sunsets over the Gulf. If the aircraft lands from the south, you will get an unparalleled view of the St. Pete-Clearwater area and the bay's turquoise waters. Request a seat in front of the wing for the best photo angles of the coastline.
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Chicago Skyline
Aerial views of the Willis Tower and the dense urban grid of the South Side shortly after takeoff.
Appalachian Foothills
The rolling green terrain of eastern Kentucky and Tennessee provides a textured landscape during mid-flight.
Atlanta Metro
High-altitude perspective of the sprawling Atlanta metropolitan area and Hartsfield-Jackson airport traffic.
Central Florida Lakes
As the plane descends, catch glimpses of the countless circular lakes dotting the Florida interior near Orlando.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. During the descent, keep an eye out for the distinct cluster of high-rises in downtown Tampa if the flight approaches from the northeast.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,607 km (999 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 9 min
Departure: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Arrival: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)
Route Type: Domestic
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