About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Denver International (DEN) to Philadelphia International (PHL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Denver to Philadelphia. Left side wins both the departure and arrival. During the flight itself, the left side also tracks closer to the southern edge of the Great Lakes region and offers views of the Appalachian ridges in Pennsylvania during descent. It is the consistently better side for the full journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Denver International in Denver?
During takeoff from Denver International (DEN), sit on the Left side for the best views. DEN typically departs eastbound on runways 16/34 or 8/26. On an eastbound departure climbing out, the left (north) side gives you a clear view back toward the Front Range and the Rocky Mountains as the aircraft turns northeast. The entire Front Range from Pikes Peak in the south to Longs Peak in the north is visible on the left side during the climbing turn. Notable sights include: Front Range of the Rockies (including Longs Peak and Pikes Peak), Denver city grid below, Rocky Mountain foothills, Cherry Creek Reservoir.
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 typically lands on runways 27L/27R (westbound approach) or 9L/9R (eastbound). On the common westbound approach over New Jersey, the left side faces south and gives you views of the Delaware River, the Philadelphia skyline, and South Jersey. On an eastbound approach, the left side still captures the city center and the Delaware waterfront. Notable sights include: Philadelphia city skyline, Delaware River, Ben Franklin Bridge, South Philadelphia sports complex.
How long is the flight from Denver to Philadelphia?
The flight from Denver International (DEN) to Philadelphia International (PHL) takes Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes.
What does the Denver to Philadelphia flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the high plains of Kansas and Nebraska, then over Missouri and Illinois flatlands. The Mississippi River is visible near the midpoint. Over Indiana and Ohio the terrain remains flat. The Appalachian Mountains — specifically the Ridge and Valley province of central Pennsylvania with its parallel folded ridges — become visible roughly 45 to 60 minutes before landing and are one of the most visually striking features of the entire route, best seen from the left side during descent.