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MGA → FLL
Which side of the plane to sit from Augusto C. Sandino (Managua) International Airport (Managua) to Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport (Fort Lauderdale)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an exceptional vantage point for the volcanic landscape of Nicaragua immediately after takeoff and provides a front-row seat to the Florida Everglades and Gulf-side sunsets during the approach.
Momotombo Volcano
Visible almost immediately after departure, this perfectly symmetrical stratovolcano sits on the shores of Lake Managua.
Gulf of Fonseca
A distant but distinct view of the volcanic islands where the borders of Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador converge.
Isla de la Juventud
The large, pine-covered island off the southern coast of Cuba is often passed directly to the west.
The Everglades
As the flight descends into Florida, the vast 'River of Grass' and its unique ecosystem are visible before the urban sprawl begins.
Gulf Sunset
On late afternoon flights, the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico, casting a deep orange glow across the cabin.
Sit in front of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Momotombo volcano right after takeoff. For evening flights, the left side is the 'cool' side of the plane, avoiding direct harsh sunlight while still offering a view of the sunset colors over the horizon as you enter U.S. airspace.
Lake Nicaragua
The massive 'Cocibolca' lake and the twin-volcano island of Ometepe may be visible to the southeast depending on the climb out.
La Mosquitia
The dense, remote rainforests and winding rivers of the Caribbean coast of Honduras and Nicaragua.
Grand Cayman
The distinct shape of the Cayman Islands surrounded by vibrant turquoise coral reefs in the middle of the Caribbean Sea.
Matanzas and Varadero
The northern Cuban coastline, featuring the famous white sand beaches and the Hicacos Peninsula.
Miami Skyline
During the final approach into FLL, the skyscrapers of Downtown Miami and Sunny Isles are often visible to the south.
The right side is best for morning flights, as the sun will be behind the plane or on the opposite side, providing perfect lighting for photography of the Caribbean reefs. Keep a close watch approximately 60-70 minutes into the flight for the striking contrast between the deep ocean and the shallow shelves of the Cayman Islands.
Distance: 1,672 km (1,039 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 14 min
Departure: MGA (12.14150047302246, -86.16819763183594)
Arrival: FLL (26.072599, -80.152702)
Route Type: International
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