Right side scores higher due to superior scenery on both legs: dramatic Sandia Mountains during ABQ departure and extensive Tampa Bay coastal features during SRQ arrival. Left side offers only flat desert and inland plains throughout the flight.
Flown ABQ to SRQ? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Albuquerque to Sarasota/Bradenton is 1,512 miles (2,433 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
Mississippi River valley (crossing near Memphis/Arkansas border), Tennessee River system, Appalachian foothills receding to the north, transition from interior plains to Gulf Coastal Plain, scattered lakes and reservoirs across Alabama and Georgia
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ABQ
RIGHTRight side captures the Sandia Mountains immediately east of ABQ during climb-out, providing dramatic relief and volcanic geology. Left side faces open desert plateau with minimal terrain variation.
Landing at SRQ
RIGHTRight side offers Tampa Bay's extensive water features, coastal development, and barrier islands during approach to SRQ. Left side shows inland flat terrain with minimal visual interest during descent.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) to Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Albuquerque to Sarasota/Bradenton. Right side scores higher due to superior scenery on both legs: dramatic Sandia Mountains during ABQ departure and extensive Tampa Bay coastal features during SRQ arrival. Left side offers only flat desert and inland plains throughout the flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Albuquerque International Sunport in Albuquerque?
During takeoff from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures the Sandia Mountains immediately east of ABQ during climb-out, providing dramatic relief and volcanic geology. Left side faces open desert plateau with minimal terrain variation. Notable sights include: Sandia Mountains (east), Rio Grande valley floor (west of runway), Albuquerque urban grid, volcanic mesas to the south.
What can I see when landing at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport in Sarasota/Bradenton?
When landing at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers Tampa Bay's extensive water features, coastal development, and barrier islands during approach to SRQ. Left side shows inland flat terrain with minimal visual interest during descent. Notable sights include: Tampa Bay and its islands, Sarasota Bay, barrier islands (Siesta Key, Longboat Key), Gulf of Mexico coastline.
How long is the flight from Albuquerque to Sarasota/Bradenton?
The flight from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) to Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,512 miles (2,433 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Albuquerque to Sarasota/Bradenton flight path pass over?
Mississippi River valley (crossing near Memphis/Arkansas border), Tennessee River system, Appalachian foothills receding to the north, transition from interior plains to Gulf Coastal Plain, scattered lakes and reservoirs across Alabama and Georgia