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SJO → FLL
Which side of the plane to sit from Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose) to Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport (Fort Lauderdale)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior mix of volcanic views upon departure and a dramatic coastal approach into Fort Lauderdale, featuring the Atlantic coastline and Port Everglades.
Irazú and Turrialba
Stunning views of Costa Rica's highest volcanoes and the Orosi Valley during the initial climb.
Caribbean Coastline
The lush, tropical shoreline of the Limón province as the aircraft heads north toward the sea.
Caribbean Keys
Crystal clear turquoise waters and small cays near the northern coast of Cuba and the Bahamian archipelago.
Port Everglades
A bird's-eye view of one of the world's busiest cruise ship ports during the final approach.
Fort Lauderdale Beach
The iconic 'Gold Coast' beaches and high-rise skyline are often visible as the plane turns for its final landing.
The right side is best for afternoon flights to avoid the direct western sun. It offers the most iconic 'Florida arrival' view, often flying over the Atlantic before turning inland over the beach. Keep your camera ready during takeoff for the best views of the Costa Rican volcanic chain.
Poás Volcano
Clear views of the active Poás crater and the cloud forests of the Central Volcanic Range shortly after takeoff.
Lake Nicaragua
A massive expanse of freshwater visible as the flight crosses the border between Costa Rica and Nicaragua.
Western Cuba & Havana
Depending on the specific airway, the western tip of Cuba and the outskirts of Havana may be visible.
The Everglades
The unique river of grass ecosystem is clearly visible during the descent into South Florida.
Fort Lauderdale Suburbs
Aerial views of the sprawling residential grids and canal systems of western Broward County.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you and avoid glare. This side is ideal for spotting the massive Lake Nicaragua shortly after departure. During the landing phase, watch for the distinct transition from the dark green Everglades to the suburban development of Florida.
Distance: 1,838 km (1,142 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 27 min
Departure: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Arrival: FLL (26.072599, -80.152702)
Route Type: International
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