Right side scores equally on the full flight but edges ahead on the landing experience. While both sides see similar cruise-phase scenery over the Gulf of Mexico and central Florida (relatively flat, open water-dominated), the right side's advantage during takeoff (Dallas skyline and urban sprawl) and especially during landing (the visually striking Florida Keys archipelago with turquoise waters and reef system) makes it the superior choice. The Keys approach is genuinely scenic and distinctive, whereas the left side offers only open water and flat terrain throughout.
Flown DAL to EYW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Dallas to Key West is 1,077 miles (1,733 km), a flight of about 2 hours 45 minutes.
Gulf of Mexico open water (majority of cruise phase), coastal Texas and Louisiana shoreline during initial climb, Florida Gulf Coast and Tampa Bay area during descent, central Florida peninsula (flat, minimal landmarks), transition to Florida Keys archipelago during final descent
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from DAL
RIGHTRight side captures Dallas Love Field's urban setting and the initial climb over the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Passengers see the downtown Dallas skyline, the Trinity River corridor, and suburban sprawl expanding southeastward during the initial turn toward the Gulf.
Landing at EYW
RIGHTRight side offers the most dramatic approach to Key West. Passengers descend over the Florida Keys archipelago, seeing the distinctive turquoise shallow waters, mangrove islands, and the Overseas Highway connecting the islands. The approach to runway 09 (easterly) provides views of the Atlantic Ocean, the reef system, and Key West's harbor and waterfront.
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 Dallas Love Fld (DAL) to Key West International (EYW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Dallas to Key West. Right side scores equally on the full flight but edges ahead on the landing experience. While both sides see similar cruise-phase scenery over the Gulf of Mexico and central Florida (relatively flat, open water-dominated), the right side's advantage during takeoff (Dallas skyline and urban sprawl) and especially during landing (the visually striking Florida Keys archipelago with turquoise waters and reef system) makes it the superior choice. The Keys approach is genuinely scenic and distinctive, whereas the left side offers only open water and flat terrain throughout.
What can I see during takeoff from Dallas Love Fld in Dallas?
During takeoff from Dallas Love Fld (DAL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures Dallas Love Field's urban setting and the initial climb over the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Passengers see the downtown Dallas skyline, the Trinity River corridor, and suburban sprawl expanding southeastward during the initial turn toward the Gulf. Notable sights include: Downtown Dallas skyline, Trinity River, DFW metroplex urban grid, Lake Ray Hubbard (southeast of departure path).
What can I see when landing at Key West International in Key West?
When landing at Key West International (EYW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers the most dramatic approach to Key West. Passengers descend over the Florida Keys archipelago, seeing the distinctive turquoise shallow waters, mangrove islands, and the Overseas Highway connecting the islands. The approach to runway 09 (easterly) provides views of the Atlantic Ocean, the reef system, and Key West's harbor and waterfront. Notable sights include: Florida Keys archipelago (Big Pine Key, Marathon Key visible), turquoise shallow banks and reef system, Overseas Highway causeway, Key West harbor and waterfront.
How long is the flight from Dallas to Key West?
The flight from Dallas Love Fld (DAL) to Key West International (EYW) takes about 2 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,077 miles (1,733 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Dallas to Key West flight path pass over?
Gulf of Mexico open water (majority of cruise phase), coastal Texas and Louisiana shoreline during initial climb, Florida Gulf Coast and Tampa Bay area during descent, central Florida peninsula (flat, minimal landmarks), transition to Florida Keys archipelago during final descent