Both sides offer a similar Miami coastal takeoff and a long ocean-dominated cruise, but the left side's landing sequence with the Alps and Lake Zurich is the most visually striking moment of the whole flight, giving it the edge overall.
Flight Path
Mostly open North Atlantic Ocean during cruise, with the Newfoundland coastline sometimes visible shortly after leaving North American airspace and the southwestern coast of Ireland occasionally visible before the route continues over the UK and France toward the Alps.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MIA
RIGHTDeparting MIA to the northeast, the initial turn puts the ocean side of the aircraft on the right, giving a good look at Miami Beach's barrier island, Biscayne Bay, and the turquoise shallows before the climb out over open water. The left side mostly shows flat inland suburbs and the edge of the Everglades.
Landing at ZRH
LEFTOn the westbound approach into runway 28, the descent path curves the aircraft so the Alps and Lake Zurich sit on the left side, offering a dramatic view of snow-capped peaks receding south before the plane lines up over the lake and city for landing. The right side mainly shows the flatter Swiss plateau and farmland north of the city.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Miami International (MIA) to Zurich (ZRH)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Miami to Zurich. Both sides offer a similar Miami coastal takeoff and a long ocean-dominated cruise, but the left side's landing sequence with the Alps and Lake Zurich is the most visually striking moment of the whole flight, giving it the edge overall.
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. Departing MIA to the northeast, the initial turn puts the ocean side of the aircraft on the right, giving a good look at Miami Beach's barrier island, Biscayne Bay, and the turquoise shallows before the climb out over open water. The left side mostly shows flat inland suburbs and the edge of the Everglades. Notable sights include: Miami Beach barrier island, Biscayne Bay, Port of Miami, turquoise nearshore waters.
What can I see when landing at Zurich in Zurich?
When landing at Zurich (ZRH), sit on the Left side for the best views. On the westbound approach into runway 28, the descent path curves the aircraft so the Alps and Lake Zurich sit on the left side, offering a dramatic view of snow-capped peaks receding south before the plane lines up over the lake and city for landing. The right side mainly shows the flatter Swiss plateau and farmland north of the city. Notable sights include: Swiss Alps skyline, Lake Zurich, Zurich city center, Uetliberg ridge.
How long is the flight from Miami to Zurich?
The flight from Miami International (MIA) to Zurich (ZRH) takes 9h 25m.
What does the Miami to Zurich flight path pass over?
Mostly open North Atlantic Ocean during cruise, with the Newfoundland coastline sometimes visible shortly after leaving North American airspace and the southwestern coast of Ireland occasionally visible before the route continues over the UK and France toward the Alps.