Right side dominates both segments—Appalachian ridgelines during departure and the Atlantic coastline plus Fort Lauderdale beachfront during arrival. This provides the most continuous scenic value across the entire flight.
Flown ABE to FLL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Allentown/Bethlehem to Fort Lauderdale is 1,043 miles (1,678 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Appalachian Mountains (Pennsylvania/Maryland ridges), the Shenandoah Valley, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and transitions into the Piedmont region of Virginia and North Carolina. Further south, the coastal plain of the Carolinas and Georgia becomes visible, with occasional river systems and coastal features. The Atlantic coastline becomes prominent in the final descent phase approaching Florida.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ABE
RIGHTRight side offers views of the Appalachian ridgelines and valleys immediately south and southwest of ABE during climb-out. The left side faces the industrial Lehigh Valley floor and developed areas with less scenic value.

Landing at FLL
RIGHTRight side provides clear views of the Atlantic coastline, Fort Lauderdale's beachfront, and the Intracoastal Waterway during descent into FLL. The left side faces inland development with less distinctive visual features.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) to Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International (FLL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Allentown/Bethlehem to Fort Lauderdale. Right side dominates both segments—Appalachian ridgelines during departure and the Atlantic coastline plus Fort Lauderdale beachfront during arrival. This provides the most continuous scenic value across the entire flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Lehigh Valley International Airport in Allentown/Bethlehem?
During takeoff from Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers views of the Appalachian ridgelines and valleys immediately south and southwest of ABE during climb-out. The left side faces the industrial Lehigh Valley floor and developed areas with less scenic value. Notable sights include: Appalachian Mountain ridges (south/southwest), Lehigh River valley, Blue Mountain (distant ridge on horizon), developed Allentown/Bethlehem urban corridor.
What can I see when landing at Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International in Fort Lauderdale?
When landing at Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International (FLL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides clear views of the Atlantic coastline, Fort Lauderdale's beachfront, and the Intracoastal Waterway during descent into FLL. The left side faces inland development with less distinctive visual features. Notable sights include: Atlantic Ocean and coastline, Fort Lauderdale Beach and beachfront high-rises, Intracoastal Waterway (parallel to coast), Port Everglades shipping channels.
How long is the flight from Allentown/Bethlehem to Fort Lauderdale?
The flight from Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) to Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International (FLL) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,043 miles (1,678 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Allentown/Bethlehem to Fort Lauderdale flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Appalachian Mountains (Pennsylvania/Maryland ridges), the Shenandoah Valley, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and transitions into the Piedmont region of Virginia and North Carolina. Further south, the coastal plain of the Carolinas and Georgia becomes visible, with occasional river systems and coastal features. The Atlantic coastline becomes prominent in the final descent phase approaching Florida.