While takeoff offers coastal scenery, the landing approach provides more dramatic and sustained mountain views. The Blue Ridge Mountains dominate the final descent, making left-side seats the better choice for the overall flight experience.
Flown PIE to AVL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
St. Petersburg to Asheville is 520 miles (837 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Florida and Georgia, passing over the Ocala National Forest area, then transitions into the Piedmont region of Georgia before reaching the Appalachian foothills. The Chattahoochee River valley and the transition from flat terrain to rolling hills become visible in the latter half of the flight. The Great Smoky Mountains appear on the distant horizon as the aircraft approaches North Carolina airspace.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PIE
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico coastline during the initial climb-out. The aircraft typically departs PIE heading northeast, so right-side passengers see the water and barrier islands immediately after takeoff.
Landing at AVL
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the Blue Ridge Mountains as the aircraft descends into Asheville from the northwest. The approach typically brings the aircraft over the ridgelines and valleys of western North Carolina, with the mountains becoming increasingly prominent during descent.
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 St Petersburg Clearwater International (PIE) to Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from St. Petersburg to Asheville. While takeoff offers coastal scenery, the landing approach provides more dramatic and sustained mountain views. The Blue Ridge Mountains dominate the final descent, making left-side seats the better choice for the overall flight experience.
What can I see during takeoff from St Petersburg Clearwater International in St. Petersburg?
During takeoff from St Petersburg Clearwater International (PIE), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico coastline during the initial climb-out. The aircraft typically departs PIE heading northeast, so right-side passengers see the water and barrier islands immediately after takeoff. Notable sights include: Tampa Bay, Clearwater Beach and barrier islands, Gulf of Mexico coastline, Hillsborough Bay.
What can I see when landing at Asheville Regional Airport in Asheville?
When landing at Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Blue Ridge Mountains as the aircraft descends into Asheville from the northwest. The approach typically brings the aircraft over the ridgelines and valleys of western North Carolina, with the mountains becoming increasingly prominent during descent. Notable sights include: Blue Ridge Mountains, Pisgah Ridge, French Broad River valley, Asheville city area.
How long is the flight from St. Petersburg to Asheville?
The flight from St Petersburg Clearwater International (PIE) to Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 520 miles (837 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the St. Petersburg to Asheville flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Florida and Georgia, passing over the Ocala National Forest area, then transitions into the Piedmont region of Georgia before reaching the Appalachian foothills. The Chattahoochee River valley and the transition from flat terrain to rolling hills become visible in the latter half of the flight. The Great Smoky Mountains appear on the distant horizon as the aircraft approaches North Carolina airspace.