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RFD → PIE
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago Rockford International Airport (Rockford) to St Petersburg Clearwater International Airport (St. Petersburg)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of major metropolitan skylines including Indianapolis and Nashville, followed by an excellent vantage point of the Tampa Bay area during the final approach into Clearwater.
Search flights from RFD to PIE
Indianapolis Metro
Aerial views of the 'Crossroads of America' and the distinct layout of the Indiana state capital.
Nashville & Cumberland River
Clear sightlines of Music City and the winding path of the Cumberland River as you cross into Tennessee.
Atlanta Urban Sprawl
The massive metropolitan footprint of Atlanta is visible as a dense network of highways and skyscrapers.
Tampa Bay Approach
On the descent into PIE, enjoy sweeping views of Old Tampa Bay and the various bridges connecting the region.
Downtown St. Petersburg
As the plane aligns for landing, look for the Pier and the city's waterfront parks along the bay.
Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise over the Appalachians in the distance. During the final 20 minutes of the flight, stay alert for the transition from the Florida interior to the turquoise waters of the bay. This side is also preferred for seeing the urban light displays of Nashville on evening flights.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United States
The Ohio River
Watch the wide Ohio River serve as the natural border between Indiana and Kentucky.
Tennessee River Valley
Lush green landscapes and the intricate waterways of the Tennessee Valley Authority reservoirs.
Florida Nature Coast
The marshy, undeveloped coastline of the Big Bend region where the Florida peninsula begins.
Gulf Barrier Islands
Stunning views of the white sand beaches of Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island State Park on descent.
Intracoastal Waterway
Observe the busy maritime traffic and luxury docks lining the narrow channels of the Gulf coast.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to witness spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. Keep your camera ready as you cross the Florida coastline; the contrast between the green wetlands and the blue Gulf is striking. On arrival, you will often get a close-up view of the barrier island chain just before touchdown.
Book Hotels in St. PetersburgDistance: 1,691 km (1,051 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 15 min
Departure: RFD (42.19540023803711, -89.09719848632812)
Arrival: PIE (27.91020012, -82.68740082)
Route Type: Domestic
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