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MKE destination photo
TPA destination photo

MKETPA

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior visual experience, featuring a potential view of the Chicago skyline shortly after takeoff, followed by the lush landscapes of the South and a stunning approach over the Gulf Coast and Pinellas County beaches.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Chicago Skyline

An iconic view of the Willis Tower and the Lake Michigan lakefront shortly after leaving Milwaukee.

🎸

Nashville Basin

Potential views of the Cumberland River and the outskirts of Music City.

🍑

Georgia Farmland

Distinctive red clay fields and sprawling agricultural patterns across the Deep South.

🏖️

Pinellas Beaches

Crystal clear views of St. Pete Beach and Clearwater's white sands during the approach.

🌉

Sunshine Skyway Bridge

The golden-cabled bridge spanning Tampa Bay is often visible when landing from the south.

The right side is premier for evening flights, offering spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. Keep your camera ready about 15-20 minutes after takeoff for the Chicago skyline. During the final approach into TPA, this side provides the most dramatic views of the Florida coastline and the turquoise waters of the Gulf.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🌊

Lake Michigan Shoreline

Immediate views of the deep blue lake and Milwaukee's coastline upon departure.

🏙️

Indianapolis Sprawl

Distant views of the Indiana state capital's grid and urban center.

⛰️

Appalachian Fringe

The rolling hills and dense green forests of eastern Kentucky and Tennessee.

🌳

Ocala National Forest

Expansive views of Florida's largest pine forest as the descent begins.

🏗️

Downtown Tampa

A close-up view of the city's skyscrapers and the winding Hillsborough River on final approach.

Choose the left side for morning flights to see the sun rising over Lake Michigan and the Atlantic side of the Florida peninsula. This side is also excellent for spotting the central Florida lake system during the descent. Avoid during the late afternoon to prevent glare from the western sun.

Top Activities in Tampa
Route Information

Distance: 1,733 km (1,077 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 19 min

Departure: MKE (42.94720077514648, -87.89659881591797)

Arrival: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)

Route Type: Domestic

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