The left side wins overall because it captures the Philadelphia skyline on departure and the long cruise view over the Appalachian ridgelines in Virginia and Tennessee, giving more sustained scenic variety than the right side's mostly flat mid-South terrain, even though the right side has a stronger Hill Country landing.
Flown PHL to AUS? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Philadelphia to Austin is 1,428 miles (2,298 km), a flight of about 3 hours 25 minutes.
Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains in Virginia/Tennessee, Tennessee River valley, and the Mississippi River lowlands before the terrain flattens into the Texas prairie
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from PHL
LEFTDeparting PHL to the west before turning south toward Texas, passengers on the left get a good look back at the Philadelphia skyline, the Delaware River, and the dense urban sprawl of the metro area as the aircraft banks south.
Landing at AUS
RIGHTAUS arrivals typically land heading south on runway 18, putting the Texas Hill Country and Lake Travis on the right side of the aircraft during final descent, offering a scenic contrast to the flatter prairie on the left.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Philadelphia International (PHL) to Austin Bergstrom International (AUS)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Philadelphia to Austin. The left side wins overall because it captures the Philadelphia skyline on departure and the long cruise view over the Appalachian ridgelines in Virginia and Tennessee, giving more sustained scenic variety than the right side's mostly flat mid-South terrain, even though the right side has a stronger Hill Country landing.
What can I see during takeoff from Philadelphia International in Philadelphia?
During takeoff from Philadelphia International (PHL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing PHL to the west before turning south toward Texas, passengers on the left get a good look back at the Philadelphia skyline, the Delaware River, and the dense urban sprawl of the metro area as the aircraft banks south. Notable sights include: Philadelphia skyline, Delaware River, South Philadelphia refineries, Center City high-rises.
What can I see when landing at Austin Bergstrom International in Austin?
When landing at Austin Bergstrom International (AUS), sit on the Right side for the best views. AUS arrivals typically land heading south on runway 18, putting the Texas Hill Country and Lake Travis on the right side of the aircraft during final descent, offering a scenic contrast to the flatter prairie on the left. Notable sights include: Lake Travis, Texas Hill Country ridgelines, Colorado River (Texas), downtown Austin skyline.
How long is the flight from Philadelphia to Austin?
The flight from Philadelphia International (PHL) to Austin Bergstrom International (AUS) takes about 3 hours 25 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,428 miles (2,298 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Philadelphia to Austin flight path pass over?
Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains in Virginia/Tennessee, Tennessee River valley, and the Mississippi River lowlands before the terrain flattens into the Texas prairie