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MGA → MIA
Which side of the plane to sit from Augusto C. Sandino (Managua) International Airport (Managua) to Miami International Airport (Miami)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior mix of Nicaragua's volcanic landscape, a potential flyover of Havana, and the iconic approach into Miami featuring the Florida Keys and the city skyline.
Ometepe Island
In the distance, the twin volcanoes of Concepción and Maderas rising out of Lake Nicaragua can be seen.
Managua Cityscape
A full view of the Nicaraguan capital and the historic center near the lakefront during the initial ascent.
Havana, Cuba
Many flight corridors pass directly over or just east of Havana, offering views of the Malecón and historic city grid.
The Florida Keys
Stunning views of the turquoise waters and the Overseas Highway as the flight enters U.S. airspace.
Miami Skyline
Depending on the wind, a standard approach to runways 8L or 9 provides a dramatic view of Downtown Miami's skyscrapers.
Choose the right side for the most iconic arrival experience into Miami. The transition from the deep blue of the Straits of Florida to the shallow turquoise of the Keys is visually spectacular. Afternoon flights on this side offer the best lighting for photography of the Miami shoreline.
Momotombo Volcano
A nearly perfect volcanic cone located on the northern shores of Lake Managua, visible shortly after takeoff.
Lake Managua
The 'Lago Xolotlán' provides a shimmering backdrop to the volcanic chain as the plane climbs North.
Viñales Valley
If the flight path crosses Western Cuba, look for the unique limestone karst 'mogotes' rising from the tobacco fields.
Everglades National Park
The vast 'River of Grass' in Florida displays intricate water patterns and sawgrass prairies before landing.
Port Miami
On final approach, catch a glimpse of the massive cruise ships and container terminals at the 'Cruise Capital of the World'.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. This side is better for viewing the chain of volcanoes extending towards the Gulf of Fonseca during the initial climb out of Managua.
Distance: 1,638 km (1,018 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 11 min
Departure: MGA (12.14150047302246, -86.16819763183594)
Arrival: MIA (25.79319953918457, -80.29060363769531)
Route Type: International
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