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PIE → CID
Which side of the plane to sit from St Petersburg Clearwater International Airport (St. Petersburg) to The Eastern Iowa Airport (Cedar Rapids)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers superior views during the initial climb out of the Tampa Bay area, including the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge, followed by excellent vistas of the Tennessee and Ohio River systems during the mid-flight transition.
Sunshine Skyway Bridge
An unparalleled view of the massive cable-stayed bridge spanning the mouth of Tampa Bay immediately after takeoff.
Tampa Metro Area
Panoramic views of the downtown Tampa skyline and the sprawling residential networks of the Suncoast.
Land Between the Lakes
The unique geographic feature of the Tennessee and Cumberland rivers running parallel, creating a massive inland peninsula.
Ohio River Valley
View the wide expanse of the Ohio River, a historic waterway and natural border between the Southern and Midwestern states.
Cedar River Basin
Lush river valleys and dense agricultural clusters as you begin your descent into Cedar Rapids.
The right side is essential for the best takeoff views of the Florida coast. For early morning flights, be aware that the sun will be on this side, which may cause glare. If flying in the fall, this side offers great views of the changing foliage in the Tennessee and Kentucky river valleys. Try to sit forward of the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
Florida Panhandle Coast
Aerial views of the white sand beaches and emerald waters along the Florida Gulf Coast during the early ascent.
Mississippi River Meanders
Witness the dramatic bends and oxbow lakes of the mighty Mississippi River as the flight enters the Midwest.
St. Louis Gateway Arch
On clear days, the iconic Arch may be visible in the distance as you pass the Missouri-Illinois border.
Iowa Heartland Grids
A patchwork of perfectly square agricultural fields showing the geometric precision of the American Midwest.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid direct solar glare while heading north. This side provides a better angle for observing the winding Mississippi River during the final third of the journey. Keep an eye out for the distinct changes in forest density as you transition from the humid south to the open plains.
Distance: 1,756 km (1,091 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 20 min
Departure: PIE (27.91020012, -82.68740082)
Arrival: CID (41.88470077514648, -91.71080017089844)
Route Type: Domestic
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