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TPA → MCI
Which side of the plane to sit from Tampa International Airport (Tampa) to Kansas City International Airport (Kansas City)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a scenic vantage point for the Gulf of Mexico shoreline upon departure, the sweeping bends of the Mississippi River, and a superior view of the Kansas City skyline during the final approach.
Search flights from TPA to MCI
Florida Suncoast
Stunning views of the white sand beaches and turquoise waters along the Gulf of Mexico immediately after takeoff.
Mississippi River Crossing
Aerial view of the massive, winding river marking the border between Mississippi and Arkansas.
Ozark National Forest
The dense green canopy and rolling terrain of the southern Ozark Mountains in Arkansas.
Little Rock Skyline
A clear view of Arkansas's capital city and the Arkansas River as the flight proceeds northwest.
Downtown Kansas City
On many landing patterns into MCI from the south, the left side features a dramatic view of the downtown skyscrapers.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to enjoy the sunset over the Great Plains as you approach Missouri. During the final 20 minutes of flight, look for the 'Country Club Plaza' and the 'Power & Light District' landmarks in Kansas City. Keep your window shade open during the mid-flight crossing of the Mississippi to see the intricate oxbow lakes formed by the river's path.
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Tampa Bay & Skyway
A panoramic look at the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and the expansive Tampa Bay area during climb-out.
Mobile Bay
The industrial port and beautiful coastal inlets of Alabama are often visible to the northeast.
Memphis Metro Area
The sprawling layout of Memphis and the iconic pyramid landmark near the riverfront.
Missouri River
The wide, muddy banks of the Missouri River as it carves through the landscape near the Kansas City airport.
The right side is preferable for morning flights to avoid the glare of the eastern sun. On departure, this side provides the best view of the MacDill Air Force Base and the urban density of the Tampa-St. Petersburg metro area. In the winter months, this side often offers a better view of the changing snow lines as the aircraft moves into the colder Midwest climate.
Book Hotels in Kansas CityDistance: 1,687 km (1,048 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 15 min
Departure: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)
Arrival: MCI (39.2976, -94.713898)
Route Type: Domestic
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