About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Philadelphia International (PHL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Los Angeles to Philadelphia. The right side wins overall due to the spectacular LA Basin departure view, and during cruise it also captures the Colorado Rockies and Appalachian ridgelines depending on the exact routing. The Philadelphia landing view on the left is excellent but shorter in duration, making right the better seat for the full journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
During takeoff from Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Right side for the best views. LAX typically departs westward over the ocean on runways 24L/24R, then turns northeast. Right-side passengers get the sweeping view back over the LA Basin, the Santa Monica Mountains, and the downtown skyline as the aircraft banks. Left side faces the Pacific during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Downtown Los Angeles skyline, Santa Monica Mountains, Griffith Observatory area, San Gabriel Mountains on the horizon.
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 approaching from the east, meaning the aircraft tracks over South Jersey and the Delaware River before touchdown. Left-side passengers see the Philadelphia skyline, the Delaware River, and Center City clearly on approach. Right side faces South Jersey suburbs. Notable sights include: Philadelphia Center City skyline, Delaware River, Benjamin Franklin Bridge, South Philadelphia sports complex.
How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Philadelphia?
The flight from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Philadelphia International (PHL) takes Approximately 4 hours 45 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Los Angeles to Philadelphia flight path pass over?
The flight typically tracks northeast over the Mojave Desert, then crosses the Colorado River into Arizona, passes north of the Grand Canyon region, crosses the Rockies over Colorado or southern Wyoming, then traverses the Great Plains of Kansas and Missouri, crosses the Mississippi River valley, passes over Indiana and Ohio, and descends through Pennsylvania crossing the Appalachian Ridge and Valley province — a series of parallel forested ridgelines clearly visible from altitude — before reaching Philadelphia.