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RIC destination photo
MCO destination photo

RICMCO

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a front-row seat to the stunning Atlantic coastline, including the Outer Banks and historic coastal cities like Charleston and Savannah.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Atlantic Coastline

Spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the winding eastern seaboard throughout the journey.

🏝️

Outer Banks

Clear sight of the narrow barrier islands and sounds off the coast of North Carolina shortly after departure.

⚓

Charleston Harbor

Aerial view of the historic port city, Fort Sumter, and the iconic Ravenel Bridge from high altitude.

🚤

Savannah River

The winding waterway separating South Carolina and Georgia is clearly visible as the flight progresses south.

🚀

Space Coast

Potential distant views of the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral during the descent into Central Florida.

Sit on the left for breathtaking sunrise views on morning flights. Keep an eye out for the distinctive silhouette of the Outer Banks roughly 20-30 minutes after takeoff. During the winter months, look for the stark contrast between the deep blue ocean and the sandy shores. This side also avoids the harsh afternoon sun glare for much of the southward journey.

Right Side Highlights
6.0
🌲

Piedmont Forests

Vast stretches of dense green forests and rolling hills throughout Virginia and the Carolinas.

🏙️

Raleigh-Durham

Possible glimpses of the Research Triangle metropolitan area urban sprawl and suburban developments.

🌊

Lake Marion

Large inland reservoir in South Carolina, providing a bright blue landmark amidst the green terrain.

🐊

Florida Wetlands

Endless stretches of swamps, marshlands, and pine flatwoods as you cross into the Sunshine State.

🎢

Orlando Theme Parks

Depending on the approach pattern into MCO, you may spot Disney World or Universal landmarks in the distance.

The right side is ideal for sunset views on late afternoon flights. It offers a better perspective of the interior geography and the thousands of circular lakes scattered across Central Florida during the final descent. If the plane lands towards the north, you might get a unique view of the massive Disney World resort area just before touchdown.

Top Activities in Orlando
Route Information

Distance: 1,075 km (668 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 26 min

Departure: RIC (37.50519943237305, -77.3197021484375)

Arrival: MCO (28.429399490356445, -81.30899810791016)

Route Type: Domestic

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