Both sides score equally for the cruise phase over relatively flat to gently rolling terrain across Tennessee, Arkansas, and into the desert Southwest. However, the right side gains advantage during the landing sequence with better views of Phoenix's urban geography and the distinctive Sonoran Desert landscape. The takeoff from PDK slightly favors the left side with Atlanta's urban features, but the landing experience at PHX is more visually rewarding on the right, making it the overall winner for the complete flight experience.
Flown PDK to PHX? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Atlanta to Phoenix is 1,589 miles (2,557 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
Tennessee River valley and ridges (Cumberland Plateau), Arkansas River valley, Ozark plateau terrain, transition from Appalachian foothills to Great Plains, New Mexico high desert, Salt River valley approaching Phoenix
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PDK
LEFTLeft side (north/northwest) offers views of Atlanta's urban sprawl and the Piedmont region during initial climb. Right side faces open terrain with fewer immediate landmarks.
Landing at PHX
RIGHTRight side (north/northeast) during descent into PHX provides views of the Phoenix metropolitan area and surrounding desert terrain. Left side faces open desert with fewer urban features until final approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from DeKalb Peachtree Airport (PDK) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Atlanta to Phoenix. Both sides score equally for the cruise phase over relatively flat to gently rolling terrain across Tennessee, Arkansas, and into the desert Southwest. However, the right side gains advantage during the landing sequence with better views of Phoenix's urban geography and the distinctive Sonoran Desert landscape. The takeoff from PDK slightly favors the left side with Atlanta's urban features, but the landing experience at PHX is more visually rewarding on the right, making it the overall winner for the complete flight experience.
What can I see during takeoff from DeKalb Peachtree Airport in Atlanta?
During takeoff from DeKalb Peachtree Airport (PDK), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side (north/northwest) offers views of Atlanta's urban sprawl and the Piedmont region during initial climb. Right side faces open terrain with fewer immediate landmarks. Notable sights include: Downtown Atlanta skyline, Chattahoochee River valley, Piedmont plateau terrain, suburban development patterns.
What can I see when landing at Phoenix Sky Harbor International in Phoenix?
When landing at Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (north/northeast) during descent into PHX provides views of the Phoenix metropolitan area and surrounding desert terrain. Left side faces open desert with fewer urban features until final approach. Notable sights include: Phoenix metropolitan sprawl, Salt River valley, Camelback Mountain, surrounding Sonoran Desert.
How long is the flight from Atlanta to Phoenix?
The flight from DeKalb Peachtree Airport (PDK) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,589 miles (2,557 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Atlanta to Phoenix flight path pass over?
Tennessee River valley and ridges (Cumberland Plateau), Arkansas River valley, Ozark plateau terrain, transition from Appalachian foothills to Great Plains, New Mexico high desert, Salt River valley approaching Phoenix