Right-side seats capture the superior takeoff scenery (Danube and Budapest) and still offer reasonable views during the transatlantic crossing of the Atlantic coastline near New York/New Jersey during descent. The takeoff advantage outweighs the landing compromise.
Flown BUD to PHL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Budapest to Philadelphia is 4,453 miles (7,166 km), a flight of about 10 hours.
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean with no major visible landmarks for roughly 6–7 hours. Notable features include: the Irish coastline and Celtic Sea (if visible during daylight hours depending on departure time), the UK and North Sea (weather permitting), and the eastern seaboard of North America including the Appalachian Mountains, Hudson River valley, and Atlantic coastline near New York/New Jersey during final descent. Most of the transatlantic portion offers only open ocean, cloud cover, and occasional weather systems.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from BUD
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Danube River as it curves through Budapest during initial climb, plus the city's urban sprawl spreading eastward. The river's distinctive meanders are clearly visible from 3,000–8,000 feet.
Landing at PHL
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the Appalachian foothills and the Schuylkill River valley during descent into Philadelphia. The river's course through the city and surrounding ridge-and-valley topography are distinctive from 8,000–3,000 feet.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ferihegy (BUD) to Philadelphia International (PHL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Budapest to Philadelphia. Right-side seats capture the superior takeoff scenery (Danube and Budapest) and still offer reasonable views during the transatlantic crossing of the Atlantic coastline near New York/New Jersey during descent. The takeoff advantage outweighs the landing compromise.
What can I see during takeoff from Ferihegy in Budapest?
During takeoff from Ferihegy (BUD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Danube River as it curves through Budapest during initial climb, plus the city's urban sprawl spreading eastward. The river's distinctive meanders are clearly visible from 3,000–8,000 feet. Notable sights include: Danube River (multiple loops through city center), Margaret Island, Budapest urban districts extending east, Buda Hills to the west.
What can I see when landing at Philadelphia International in Philadelphia?
When landing at Philadelphia International (PHL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Appalachian foothills and the Schuylkill River valley during descent into Philadelphia. The river's course through the city and surrounding ridge-and-valley topography are distinctive from 8,000–3,000 feet. Notable sights include: Schuylkill River, Appalachian ridge-and-valley terrain, Philadelphia's urban core and grid pattern, Delaware River to the east.
How long is the flight from Budapest to Philadelphia?
The flight from Ferihegy (BUD) to Philadelphia International (PHL) takes about 10 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 4,453 miles (7,166 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Budapest to Philadelphia flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean with no major visible landmarks for roughly 6–7 hours. Notable features include: the Irish coastline and Celtic Sea (if visible during daylight hours depending on departure time), the UK and North Sea (weather permitting), and the eastern seaboard of North America including the Appalachian Mountains, Hudson River valley, and Atlantic coastline near New York/New Jersey during final descent. Most of the transatlantic portion offers only open ocean, cloud cover, and occasional weather systems.