While takeoff favors the right for Orlando's lakes, the landing view of the Ohio River valley and Cincinnati's geography from the left is more distinctive and memorable. Left seats capture the dramatic river landscape and urban setting that define the approach to CVG.
Flown MCO to CVG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Orlando to Cincinnati is 759 miles (1,221 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Georgia and eastern Tennessee at cruise altitude. Notable features include the Appalachian foothills becoming visible as you progress north, the Tennessee River valley (visible on clear days), and the transition from Florida's flat terrain to the increasingly rolling topography of the Southeast. The Great Smoky Mountains remain too far west to be visible from the direct MCO-CVG route, but the Cumberland Plateau and surrounding ridges of eastern Tennessee become apparent during the northern portion of cruise.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MCO
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the sprawl of greater Orlando and the lakes dotting central Florida during northbound climb. MCO typically departs north or northeast, so right windows show the urban grid and numerous lakes that define the landscape immediately after takeoff.
Landing at CVG
LEFTLeft-side seats offer views of the Cincinnati metropolitan area, the Ohio River valley, and the surrounding hills as you descend into CVG from the south. CVG typically receives aircraft from the south on runways 18L/18R, positioning left windows to see the city and river geography.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Orlando International (MCO) to Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International (CVG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Orlando to Cincinnati. While takeoff favors the right for Orlando's lakes, the landing view of the Ohio River valley and Cincinnati's geography from the left is more distinctive and memorable. Left seats capture the dramatic river landscape and urban setting that define the approach to CVG.
What can I see during takeoff from Orlando International in Orlando?
During takeoff from Orlando International (MCO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the sprawl of greater Orlando and the lakes dotting central Florida during northbound climb. MCO typically departs north or northeast, so right windows show the urban grid and numerous lakes that define the landscape immediately after takeoff. Notable sights include: Lake Apopka (large shallow lake west of downtown Orlando), downtown Orlando skyline, the chain of lakes running north through Orange County, Florida's Turnpike corridor.
What can I see when landing at Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International in Cincinnati?
When landing at Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International (CVG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views of the Cincinnati metropolitan area, the Ohio River valley, and the surrounding hills as you descend into CVG from the south. CVG typically receives aircraft from the south on runways 18L/18R, positioning left windows to see the city and river geography. Notable sights include: Ohio River (winding through the valley), Cincinnati downtown skyline and riverfront, the rolling terrain of northern Kentucky and southern Ohio, the Licking River confluence.
How long is the flight from Orlando to Cincinnati?
The flight from Orlando International (MCO) to Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International (CVG) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 759 miles (1,221 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Orlando to Cincinnati flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Georgia and eastern Tennessee at cruise altitude. Notable features include the Appalachian foothills becoming visible as you progress north, the Tennessee River valley (visible on clear days), and the transition from Florida's flat terrain to the increasingly rolling topography of the Southeast. The Great Smoky Mountains remain too far west to be visible from the direct MCO-CVG route, but the Cumberland Plateau and surrounding ridges of eastern Tennessee become apparent during the northern portion of cruise.