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RFD → PGD
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago Rockford International Airport (Rockford) to Charlotte County Airport (Punta Gorda)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers superior views of the Tennessee valley and an spectacular approach along the Florida Gulf Coast, featuring the Tampa Bay area and the white-sand beaches of the Gulf.
Nashville Skyline
A great view of the 'Batman Building' and the Cumberland River as the flight path passes near the Tennessee capital.
Gulf of Mexico
The emerald and turquoise waters of the Gulf become visible as the plane begins its descent over the Florida peninsula.
Tampa Bay & Skyway
Excellent views of the sprawling Tampa Bay, the St. Petersburg shoreline, and the iconic yellow cables of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
Sarasota & Siesta Key
The world-famous white quartz sands of Siesta Key and the barrier islands are clearly visible during the final approach into PGD.
Charlotte Harbor
Direct views of the expansive harbor and the Peace River delta just moments before touchdown at Punta Gorda.
The right side is the 'sunset side' for evening flights, offering stunning colors over the Gulf. For the best photography of the Tampa Bay area and the coastline, choose a seat behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed downward view during the descent.
Great Smoky Mountains
Distal views of the blue-misted peaks and ridges of the Southern Appalachians while crossing over the Tennessee-North Carolina border.
Atlanta Perimeter
Aerial perspective of the sprawling North Georgia suburbs and the distant skyline of the South's largest metropolitan hub.
Central Florida Lakes
A dense cluster of circular sinkhole lakes near the Ocala and Orlando regions, showcasing Florida's unique karst topography.
Orlando Area Attractions
On a clear day, look for the sprawling complexes of major theme parks and the prominent skyline of downtown Orlando.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun glare. This side provides the best view of the sunrise if departing Rockford very early. Keep an eye out for the St. Johns River as you enter Florida airspace.
Distance: 1,817 km (1,129 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 25 min
Departure: RFD (42.19540023803711, -89.09719848632812)
Arrival: PGD (26.92020035, -81.99050140000001)
Route Type: Domestic
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