Right-side seats capture the more dramatic scenery: Biscayne Bay's turquoise waters and Miami's coastal geography on departure outweigh the landing views. The takeoff sequence offers more visually distinctive features than the approach into Memphis.
Flown MIA to MEM? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Miami to Memphis is 860 miles (1,384 km), a flight of about 2 hours 25 minutes.
Lake Okeechobee (large freshwater lake visible as a distinct rectangular body in south-central Florida), Florida's interior wetlands and agricultural areas, the transition from Florida's peninsula to Georgia's rolling terrain, the Chattahoochee River valley, and Tennessee's forested landscape with occasional river valleys as you approach Memphis from the southeast
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase

Takeoff from MIA
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami coastline as you climb out over the Atlantic. The bay's turquoise waters and barrier islands are striking during initial ascent before the aircraft turns northwest toward Memphis.
Landing at MEM
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the Mississippi River and Memphis's downtown skyline as you descend into Memphis International. The river's distinctive meanders and the city's position on the bluff are clearly visible during final approach from the north.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Miami International (MIA) to Memphis International (MEM)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Miami to Memphis. Right-side seats capture the more dramatic scenery: Biscayne Bay's turquoise waters and Miami's coastal geography on departure outweigh the landing views. The takeoff sequence offers more visually distinctive features than the approach into Memphis.
What can I see during takeoff from Miami International in Miami?
During takeoff from Miami International (MIA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami coastline as you climb out over the Atlantic. The bay's turquoise waters and barrier islands are striking during initial ascent before the aircraft turns northwest toward Memphis. Notable sights include: Biscayne Bay, Miami Beach and South Beach barrier islands, Port of Miami container terminals, Atlantic Ocean.
What can I see when landing at Memphis International in Memphis?
When landing at Memphis International (MEM), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Mississippi River and Memphis's downtown skyline as you descend into Memphis International. The river's distinctive meanders and the city's position on the bluff are clearly visible during final approach from the north. Notable sights include: Mississippi River with characteristic meanders, Memphis downtown skyline and Shelby County bluffs, Wolf River confluence, Mud Island.
How long is the flight from Miami to Memphis?
The flight from Miami International (MIA) to Memphis International (MEM) takes about 2 hours 25 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 860 miles (1,384 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Miami to Memphis flight path pass over?
Lake Okeechobee (large freshwater lake visible as a distinct rectangular body in south-central Florida), Florida's interior wetlands and agricultural areas, the transition from Florida's peninsula to Georgia's rolling terrain, the Chattahoochee River valley, and Tennessee's forested landscape with occasional river valleys as you approach Memphis from the southeast