Loading map...
TPA → CLE
Which side of the plane to sit from Tampa International Airport (Tampa) to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (Cleveland)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side typically provides a more dramatic approach into Cleveland with views of the Lake Erie shoreline and the downtown skyline, while offering a great perspective of the Appalachian ridges during the cruise.
Downtown Tampa
A clear view of the Tampa urban core and Ybor City shortly after taking off from TPA.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Spectacular views of the highest peaks in the Appalachian chain throughout the mid-flight cruise.
Charlotte Skyline
The high-rises of the Queen City are often visible as the flight path skirts the Piedmont region.
Lake Erie Shoreline
The vast, sea-like horizon of the Great Lakes appearing as the aircraft begins its northern descent.
Cleveland Skyline
A prime view of the Terminal Tower, Key Tower, and the Lakefront Stadium during the final approach.
Sit on the right for the iconic 'Cleveland reveal.' Depending on the wind, planes often bank over Lake Erie, providing a stunning panoramic view of the city. In the winter, the frozen patterns on the lake are a unique geographic highlight.
Tampa Bay & Gulf Coast
Expansive views of the St. Pete-Clearwater coastline and the shimmering Gulf of Mexico during initial ascent.
Oconee National Forest
Dense green canopies and rolling hills of the Georgia wilderness as the flight heads north.
Great Smoky Mountains
The western edges of the ancient Appalachian range, often shrouded in their namesake blue mist.
Ohio River
The sweeping curves of the Ohio River marking the boundary between the mountainous south and the midwestern plains.
Cuyahoga Valley
The lush landscapes of Ohio's only national park just before the final descent into Cleveland.
The left side is preferable for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. Keep your eyes peeled as you cross West Virginia; the deep river gorges are particularly striking from this angle during the autumn season.
Distance: 1,495 km (929 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs
Departure: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)
Arrival: CLE (41.4117012024, -81.8498001099)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.