The takeoff views from the right side—Hampton Roads, James River estuary, and the Atlantic coastline—are more visually distinctive and dramatic than the landing views. While the landing offers pleasant lake scenery, the coastal water features and harbor complexity visible during Norfolk departure provide superior scenic value for the majority of the flight's initial phase.
Flown ORF to MCO? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Norfolk to Orlando is 656 miles (1,055 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
Pamlico Sound and Outer Banks (North Carolina coast, visible during early cruise), Cape Hatteras region, transition from Atlantic coastal plain to the Piedmont region of North Carolina and South Carolina, Pee Dee River valley, and the gradual shift from pine forests to subtropical vegetation as the flight progresses southwestward toward Florida
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORF
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Hampton Roads waterway system and the Atlantic coastline as the aircraft climbs southwestward. The James River estuary and Norfolk Harbor are prominent water features visible during initial climb.
Landing at MCO
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of central Florida's lake-dotted landscape and the Orlando metropolitan area during descent. The chain of lakes west and south of the airport, plus the urban sprawl of Orlando itself, are clearly visible on approach from the north.
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 Norfolk International (ORF) to Orlando International (MCO)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Norfolk to Orlando. The takeoff views from the right side—Hampton Roads, James River estuary, and the Atlantic coastline—are more visually distinctive and dramatic than the landing views. While the landing offers pleasant lake scenery, the coastal water features and harbor complexity visible during Norfolk departure provide superior scenic value for the majority of the flight's initial phase.
What can I see during takeoff from Norfolk International in Norfolk?
During takeoff from Norfolk International (ORF), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Hampton Roads waterway system and the Atlantic coastline as the aircraft climbs southwestward. The James River estuary and Norfolk Harbor are prominent water features visible during initial climb. Notable sights include: Hampton Roads (major harbor complex), James River estuary, Atlantic coastline, Chesapeake Bay (distant).
What can I see when landing at Orlando International in Orlando?
When landing at Orlando International (MCO), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of central Florida's lake-dotted landscape and the Orlando metropolitan area during descent. The chain of lakes west and south of the airport, plus the urban sprawl of Orlando itself, are clearly visible on approach from the north. Notable sights include: Lake Apopka (largest lake in the region), Orlando urban area, chain of smaller lakes (Eustis, Dora, Harris), wetland areas of the Ocala National Forest region (distant).
How long is the flight from Norfolk to Orlando?
The flight from Norfolk International (ORF) to Orlando International (MCO) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 656 miles (1,055 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Norfolk to Orlando flight path pass over?
Pamlico Sound and Outer Banks (North Carolina coast, visible during early cruise), Cape Hatteras region, transition from Atlantic coastal plain to the Piedmont region of North Carolina and South Carolina, Pee Dee River valley, and the gradual shift from pine forests to subtropical vegetation as the flight progresses southwestward toward Florida