About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Charles De Gaulle (CDG) to Philadelphia International (PHL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Paris to Philadelphia. Left side wins at both ends of the flight. During the transatlantic cruise at 35,000 feet there is little to distinguish sides over open ocean, but the left seat delivers the Paris departure views and the Delaware River and Philadelphia approach on arrival.
What can I see during takeoff from Charles De Gaulle in Paris?
During takeoff from Charles De Gaulle (CDG), sit on the Left side for the best views. CDG typically departs westbound on runways 26L/26R, meaning a left-side seat faces south toward Paris. You get a clear view of the city center, the Seine river bends, and the Eiffel Tower area as the aircraft climbs and banks right toward the Atlantic. Notable sights include: Paris city center and Seine river bends, Eiffel Tower district (visible as a distinctive spire), La Défense business district towers, Versailles palace grounds and formal gardens.
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. PHL primarily lands on runways 27L/27R from the east, meaning the aircraft approaches from the east heading west. A left-side seat faces south, giving views of the Delaware River, South Philadelphia, and the city skyline as you descend over New Jersey. Notable sights include: Delaware River and its wide bend at Philadelphia, Philadelphia downtown skyline including One Liberty Place, Atlantic City and New Jersey Pine Barrens during initial descent, Chesapeake Bay visible to the south on clear days.
How long is the flight from Paris to Philadelphia?
The flight from Charles De Gaulle (CDG) to Philadelphia International (PHL) takes Approximately 8 to 8.5 hours westbound.
What does the Paris to Philadelphia flight path pass over?
The route tracks northwest from Paris over the English Channel near Cherbourg, then crosses southern Ireland or the Irish coast near Shannon, before heading out over the North Atlantic. The flight path typically arcs over the southern tip of Greenland or just south of it depending on the jet stream, then descends toward Newfoundland and Nova Scotia. The New England coastline including Cape Cod and Long Island Sound become visible in the final hour of descent before crossing into New Jersey airspace.