Right-side seats offer superior views on both departure and arrival. Eastbound departure from PHL showcases the Delaware River and Philadelphia skyline, while the approach to Key West captures the dramatic turquoise waters and island geography that define the Keys.
Flown PHL to EYW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Philadelphia to Key West is 1,124 miles (1,809 km), a flight of about 2 hours 50 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Atlantic coast near Cape Hatteras, North Carolina (visible at cruise altitude as a distinctive sandy hook), then proceeds south over the open Atlantic. Around the midpoint, the Bahamas' turquoise banks and islands become visible, particularly the Exuma Cays and their characteristic light-blue shallow waters. The final descent approaches from the northeast, with the Florida Keys appearing as a thin line of islands stretching southwest toward Key West.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from PHL
RIGHTPHL typically departs eastbound (Runways 09L/09R) or westbound (27L/27R). Right-side seats on eastbound departures capture the Delaware River, Philadelphia's downtown skyline, and the transition from urban development to the Pine Barrens of New Jersey. Westbound departures offer less dramatic scenery over suburban sprawl.
Landing at EYW
RIGHTKey West approaches typically use Runway 09 (eastbound) or 27 (westbound). Right-side seats on either approach capture the Florida Keys' distinctive shallow turquoise waters, the narrow island chain, and the contrast between the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. The Keys' thin profile and surrounding water create dramatic visual separation from the mainland.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Philadelphia International (PHL) to Key West International (EYW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Philadelphia to Key West. Right-side seats offer superior views on both departure and arrival. Eastbound departure from PHL showcases the Delaware River and Philadelphia skyline, while the approach to Key West captures the dramatic turquoise waters and island geography that define the Keys.
What can I see during takeoff from Philadelphia International in Philadelphia?
During takeoff from Philadelphia International (PHL), sit on the Right side for the best views. PHL typically departs eastbound (Runways 09L/09R) or westbound (27L/27R). Right-side seats on eastbound departures capture the Delaware River, Philadelphia's downtown skyline, and the transition from urban development to the Pine Barrens of New Jersey. Westbound departures offer less dramatic scenery over suburban sprawl. Notable sights include: Delaware River (immediate left bank), Philadelphia downtown core with William Penn statue visible on City Hall, Ben Franklin Bridge spanning the river, Pine Barrens forest extending eastward.
What can I see when landing at Key West International in Key West?
When landing at Key West International (EYW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Key West approaches typically use Runway 09 (eastbound) or 27 (westbound). Right-side seats on either approach capture the Florida Keys' distinctive shallow turquoise waters, the narrow island chain, and the contrast between the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. The Keys' thin profile and surrounding water create dramatic visual separation from the mainland. Notable sights include: Turquoise shallow waters of the Florida Keys, Key West island itself, Fort Jefferson visible on the horizon (Dry Tortugas), the narrow causeway connecting the Keys.
How long is the flight from Philadelphia to Key West?
The flight from Philadelphia International (PHL) to Key West International (EYW) takes about 2 hours 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,124 miles (1,809 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Philadelphia to Key West flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Atlantic coast near Cape Hatteras, North Carolina (visible at cruise altitude as a distinctive sandy hook), then proceeds south over the open Atlantic. Around the midpoint, the Bahamas' turquoise banks and islands become visible, particularly the Exuma Cays and their characteristic light-blue shallow waters. The final descent approaches from the northeast, with the Florida Keys appearing as a thin line of islands stretching southwest toward Key West.