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TPA → SAT
Which side of the plane to sit from Tampa International Airport (Tampa) to San Antonio International Airport (San Antonio)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft typically offers superior views of the Gulf Coast shoreline, the sprawling Lake Pontchartrain near New Orleans, and the dense bayous of southern Louisiana before crossing into the piney woods of East Texas.
Florida Panhandle
Stunning views of the Emerald Coast, including the white sands of Destin and Pensacola Beach.
Lake Pontchartrain Causeway
The world's longest bridge over water, stretching 24 miles across the massive lake north of New Orleans.
New Orleans Skyline
A clear view of the Crescent City, the Superdome, and the winding bends of the Mississippi River.
Atchafalaya Basin
The largest wetland and swamp in the United States, featuring a mosaic of bayous and cypress trees.
East Texas Piney Woods
The transition from coastal wetlands to the dense forests and reservoirs of Eastern Texas.
The right side is the clear winner for landmark spotting. Try to book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating New Orleans and the Louisiana swamps. Keep your eyes peeled for the distinct curve of the Mississippi River as you pass New Orleans.
Clearwater Barrier Islands
Aerial views of the white sand beaches and turquoise waters of Clearwater and Honeymoon Island during departure.
Deep Gulf Horizon
Vast expanses of the Gulf of Mexico where you can often spot cargo ships and offshore oil rigs.
Mississippi River Delta
The unique 'bird's foot' delta structure where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf, showing distinct silt patterns.
Galveston Bay
Views of the massive shipping lanes, the Texas City Dike, and the industrial landscape of the Texas coast.
Coastal Salt Marshes
Intricate, labyrinth-like patterns of the Louisiana and Texas wetlands meeting the ocean.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Mississippi River's entry into the sea. This side is better for mid-day flights as it avoids the direct southern sun glare typical for westward routes. Look for the sediment plumes where river water meets the blue Gulf.
Distance: 1,562 km (971 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 5 min
Departure: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)
Arrival: SAT (29.533700942993164, -98.46980285644533)
Route Type: Domestic
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