While the takeoff offers good Philadelphia views, the landing approach over the Mississippi River and Memphis's bluff-top setting is more visually distinctive and dramatic. Right seats capture the river's scale and the city's geographic position better.
Flown PHL to MEM? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Philadelphia to Memphis is 873 miles (1,405 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Appalachian foothills of West Virginia and eastern Kentucky, with the New River Gorge visible on clear days. You'll pass over the Cumberland Plateau region, characterized by ridge-and-valley terrain. The Ohio River appears briefly near the Kentucky-Ohio border. As you approach Memphis, the terrain flattens into the Mississippi River valley with its characteristic agricultural landscape.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from PHL
LEFTLeft seats offer views of the Delaware River and the urban grid of Philadelphia as you climb out westward. You'll see the Schuylkill River confluence and the city's downtown corridor receding beneath you.
Landing at MEM
RIGHTRight seats provide excellent views of the Mississippi River and Memphis's position on its banks during descent. You'll see the river's dramatic curve and the city's layout along the bluffs.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Philadelphia International (PHL) to Memphis International (MEM)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Philadelphia to Memphis. While the takeoff offers good Philadelphia views, the landing approach over the Mississippi River and Memphis's bluff-top setting is more visually distinctive and dramatic. Right seats capture the river's scale and the city's geographic position better.
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. Left seats offer views of the Delaware River and the urban grid of Philadelphia as you climb out westward. You'll see the Schuylkill River confluence and the city's downtown corridor receding beneath you. Notable sights include: Delaware River, Schuylkill River, Philadelphia downtown skyline, Ben Franklin Bridge.
What can I see when landing at Memphis International in Memphis?
When landing at Memphis International (MEM), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right seats provide excellent views of the Mississippi River and Memphis's position on its banks during descent. You'll see the river's dramatic curve and the city's layout along the bluffs. Notable sights include: Mississippi River, Memphis bluffs, Wolf River, downtown Memphis skyline.
How long is the flight from Philadelphia to Memphis?
The flight from Philadelphia International (PHL) to Memphis International (MEM) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 873 miles (1,405 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Philadelphia to Memphis flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Appalachian foothills of West Virginia and eastern Kentucky, with the New River Gorge visible on clear days. You'll pass over the Cumberland Plateau region, characterized by ridge-and-valley terrain. The Ohio River appears briefly near the Kentucky-Ohio border. As you approach Memphis, the terrain flattens into the Mississippi River valley with its characteristic agricultural landscape.