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PHX → TPA
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to Tampa International Airport (Tampa)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer desert and coastal views, the right side provides superior perspectives of the Mississippi River Delta and a more dramatic approach into Tampa over the Gulf of Mexico.
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Gila Wilderness
Rugged mountains and deep canyons of southwestern New Mexico, often capped with snow in winter.
Permian Basin
The unique geometric grid patterns of the West Texas oil fields visible from cruising altitude.
The Mississippi Delta
The vast 'bird's foot' delta where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico south of New Orleans.
Emerald Coast
The stunning contrast between bright white quartz sand and turquoise waters along the Florida Panhandle.
Sunshine Skyway Bridge
A breathtaking view of the iconic bridge spanning Tampa Bay during the final approach into TPA.
Sit on the right side for the best sunset views on late afternoon flights. As you approach Tampa, the plane often flies over the Gulf, providing a panoramic view of the coastline and the St. Petersburg skyline.
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Mogollon Rim
The dramatic southern edge of the Colorado Plateau featuring massive limestone and sandstone cliffs.
Llano Estacado
One of the largest mesas in North America, showing a vast, flat landscape of the Texas Panhandle.
Mississippi River
The winding river systems and oxbow lakes near the border of Arkansas and Mississippi.
Tallahassee
Florida's capital city nestled among the rolling hills and canopy roads of the northern panhandle.
Crystal River
The intricate network of springs and marshlands along Florida's Nature Coast during the descent.
The left side (facing North) is ideal for mid-day flights to avoid direct sun glare. It offers excellent views of the transition from the arid Southwest to the lush, green forests of the American Southeast.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,873 km (1,785 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 50 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)
Route Type: Domestic
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