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TPA → ZRH
Which side of the plane to sit from Tampa International Airport (Tampa) to Zürich Airport (Zurich)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer distinct advantages, the Right Side is generally superior for its spectacular Atlantic sunrise and the more frequent panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Zurich during the final approach.
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Atlantic Sunrise
A front-row seat to the sun rising over the Atlantic horizon, typically occurring 2-3 hours before arrival.
French Countryside
Gliding over the structured farmlands and historic villages of Northern France as the plane nears the Swiss border.
Swiss Alps
Incredible views of the snow-capped Bernese Oberland peaks to the south during the descent into Zurich.
Lake Zurich
A stunning perspective of the long, crescent-shaped lake and the city of Zurich just before touchdown.
The right side is ideal for the 'money shot' of the Alps during descent. Since this is an eastbound red-eye, the sun will rise on this side; bring high-quality sunglasses for the final few hours of the flight. For the best view of Lake Zurich, try to secure a seat behind the wing to avoid engine obstruction during the steep descent phases.
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US Eastern Seaboard
Aerial views of the Outer Banks and the twinkling lights of the Northeast Megalopolis during the initial climb.
Greenland Icecap
On northern great-circle tracks, witness the massive ice sheets and rugged fjords of Southern Greenland.
Northern Lights
During the dark transatlantic portion in winter months, the port side offers the best chance to spot the Aurora Borealis.
Black Forest
As you enter Central Europe, look out for the dense, dark canopies of Germany's famous forest region.
Choose the left side if you are traveling during the winter months and hope to catch the Northern Lights over the North Atlantic. This side also offers better views of the Canadian Maritimes if the flight path stays northern. Keep your window shade down during the middle of the flight to avoid waking other passengers when the sun rises early in the east.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for SwitzerlandDistance: 7,835 km (4,868 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 13 min
Departure: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)
Arrival: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)
Route Type: International
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