About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Schiphol (AMS) to Tampa International (TPA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Amsterdam to Tampa. While the left seat wins at departure for Amsterdam city views, the right seat delivers the more dramatic arrival experience over Tampa Bay and the Gulf Coast. Across the Atlantic, both sides are largely ocean, but the right seat also picks up the southern coast of Ireland during the early transatlantic leg and the Florida coastline on approach, making it the stronger choice for the full journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Schiphol in Amsterdam?
During takeoff from Schiphol (AMS), sit on the Left side for the best views. Schiphol typically departs westward on runway 18R/36L or 24 toward the North Sea. A left (south/east) seat gives you views over Amsterdam city center, the IJ river, and the distinctive polder landscape of the Randstad as you climb out. Right seats face open farmland and the North Sea almost immediately. Notable sights include: Amsterdam city center canal ring, IJ river and harbor, Haarlem and its surrounding polders, Westpoort industrial port district.
What can I see when landing at Tampa International in Tampa?
When landing at Tampa International (TPA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Tampa International sits on the west side of Tampa Bay, and aircraft typically approach from the east or northeast on runway 19R/01L. A right (west) seat gives you the best view of Tampa Bay, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, and the St. Petersburg peninsula as you descend. Left seats face inland toward suburban Tampa. Notable sights include: Tampa Bay and its open water, Sunshine Skyway Bridge, St. Petersburg peninsula, Clearwater and the barrier islands of Pinellas County.
How long is the flight from Amsterdam to Tampa?
The flight from Schiphol (AMS) to Tampa International (TPA) takes Approximately 10 to 11 hours.
What does the Amsterdam to Tampa flight path pass over?
Southern tip of Ireland and Cork coastline early in the flight, then open North Atlantic for the majority of the crossing. The flight path arcs over the Azores region at roughly the midpoint. Approaching North America, the route passes over or near Newfoundland or Nova Scotia depending on winds, then tracks south along the US East Coast before cutting inland over Georgia and Florida. The Gulf Stream is not visually distinct but the color change between cold and warm Atlantic water can sometimes be seen.