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SGF → PIE
Which side of the plane to sit from Springfield Branson National Airport (Springfield) to St Petersburg Clearwater International Airport (St. Petersburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side (Starboard) is generally the winner for this route as it provides a front-row seat to the transition from the Ozark Mountains to the Gulf of Mexico, including the stunning white-sand beaches of the Florida Panhandle and the descent over the Gulf.
Ozark National Forest
Immediately after takeoff, enjoy the dense forested ridges and deep valleys of the Ozark Plateau.
Table Rock Lake
Aerial views of the winding, branched arms of this massive reservoir near the Missouri-Arkansas border.
The Emerald Coast
Spectacular views of the bright white sands and turquoise waters of Destin and Panama City Beach as you cross the coastline.
Mobile Bay
A clear view of the historic bay and the busy port of Mobile, Alabama, during the mid-flight transition.
Pinellas County Beaches
During the descent into PIE, you will likely see the string of barrier islands including Clearwater Beach and Honeymoon Island.
The right side is unbeatable for coastal scenery. Aim for a mid-afternoon flight to see the emerald waters of the Gulf coast at their most vibrant. As you approach PIE, look for the Skyway Bridge in the distance if the plane tracks south before turning back to land. Be aware that winter flights may experience more glare on this side in the afternoon.
Mississippi River Crossing
A broad view of the continent's largest river system as the flight crosses near the border of Arkansas and Mississippi.
Appalachian Foothills
Distant views of the rolling green hills and ridges of northern Alabama and Georgia.
Birmingham Skyline
Depending on the specific flight corridor, the urban sprawl and city center of Birmingham, Alabama, are often visible.
Central Florida Lakes
A beautiful patchwork of thousands of freshwater lakes dotting the Florida landscape as you begin your descent.
Tampa Bay Area
Views of the northern sections of Tampa Bay and the urban landscape of Oldsmar and Westchase during the final approach.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. This side offers better views of the inland river systems and the dense green canopies of the southeastern forests. It is particularly scenic during the late descent when the sun is high, illuminating the Florida lake districts.
Distance: 1,441 km (895 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 55 min
Departure: SGF (37.24570084, -93.38860321)
Arrival: PIE (27.91020012, -82.68740082)
Route Type: Domestic
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