While left offers good Philadelphia departure views, right provides the more visually distinctive arrival experience with Madison's two lakes creating a dramatic and recognizable landmark. The lakes are far more striking from altitude than the relatively flat terrain crossed during the 3-hour flight westward.
Flown PHL to MSN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Philadelphia to Madison is 762 miles (1,227 km), a flight of about 2 hours 10 minutes.
The flight path westbound crosses the Appalachian foothills of Pennsylvania and Ohio (relatively subtle elevation changes visible around 20,000+ feet), then transitions into the flatter agricultural landscape of Indiana and Illinois. The Ohio River may be visible in southern Ohio depending on exact routing. Lake Erie is possible but typically north of the direct PHL-MSN corridor. The terrain becomes progressively flatter and more agricultural as you approach Wisconsin, with scattered lakes becoming visible in southern Wisconsin during descent.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from PHL
LEFTLeft side offers views of the Delaware River estuary and the urban core of Philadelphia as you climb out westbound. You'll see the grid of Center City and the river's curve toward the Atlantic.
Landing at MSN
RIGHTRight side provides excellent views of the Dane County landscape and Madison's lakes during descent. You'll see Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, which frame the city and are striking from altitude.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Philadelphia International (PHL) to Dane Co Rgnl Truax Fld (MSN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Philadelphia to Madison. While left offers good Philadelphia departure views, right provides the more visually distinctive arrival experience with Madison's two lakes creating a dramatic and recognizable landmark. The lakes are far more striking from altitude than the relatively flat terrain crossed during the 3-hour flight westward.
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 side offers views of the Delaware River estuary and the urban core of Philadelphia as you climb out westbound. You'll see the grid of Center City and the river's curve toward the Atlantic. Notable sights include: Delaware River, Philadelphia city center, Ben Franklin Bridge, Schuylkill River confluence.
What can I see when landing at Dane Co Rgnl Truax Fld in Madison?
When landing at Dane Co Rgnl Truax Fld (MSN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides excellent views of the Dane County landscape and Madison's lakes during descent. You'll see Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, which frame the city and are striking from altitude. Notable sights include: Lake Mendota, Lake Monona, Madison city center, Isthmus between lakes.
How long is the flight from Philadelphia to Madison?
The flight from Philadelphia International (PHL) to Dane Co Rgnl Truax Fld (MSN) takes about 2 hours 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 762 miles (1,227 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Philadelphia to Madison flight path pass over?
The flight path westbound crosses the Appalachian foothills of Pennsylvania and Ohio (relatively subtle elevation changes visible around 20,000+ feet), then transitions into the flatter agricultural landscape of Indiana and Illinois. The Ohio River may be visible in southern Ohio depending on exact routing. Lake Erie is possible but typically north of the direct PHL-MSN corridor. The terrain becomes progressively flatter and more agricultural as you approach Wisconsin, with scattered lakes becoming visible in southern Wisconsin during descent.