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PIE → RFD
Which side of the plane to sit from St Petersburg Clearwater International Airport (St. Petersburg) to Chicago Rockford International Airport (Rockford)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior coastal views during departure from Florida and better perspective of the scenic waterways in the mid-south.
Search flights from PIE to RFD
Clearwater Barrier Islands
Breathtaking views of the white sand beaches and turquoise waters along the Pinellas County coastline immediately after takeoff.
The Big Bend Coastline
Observation of the marshy, undeveloped curve where the Florida peninsula meets the panhandle.
Land Between the Lakes
A massive national recreation area featuring Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley visible during the transit through the mid-south.
Illinois Prairie Land
Distinctive geometric agricultural patterns and small rural towns as the flight descends into Northern Illinois.
For the best experience, choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. On evening flights, the left side provides a front-row seat to spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico during the initial climb. Watch for the Tennessee River crossing roughly 60-70 minutes into the flight.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United States
Tampa Bay Metro
Expansive views of Old Tampa Bay, the Howard Frankland Bridge, and the downtown Tampa skyline in the distance.
Appalachian Foothills
The eastern horizon showcases the beginning of the rolling green hills and dense forests of the Tennessee Valley.
Ohio River Crossing
Views of the wide Ohio River near the border of Kentucky and Illinois, often featuring heavy barge traffic.
Rockford Environs
The suburban sprawl and industrial landscape surrounding the Rock River valley as you approach the airport.
Sit on the right for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is better for spotting major cities like Nashville or Indianapolis depending on the specific air traffic control routing. During the descent into RFD, keep an eye out for the Rock River winding through the landscape north of the city.
Book Hotels in RockfordDistance: 1,691 km (1,051 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 15 min
Departure: PIE (27.91020012, -82.68740082)
Arrival: RFD (42.19540023803711, -89.09719848632812)
Route Type: Domestic
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