Right-side seats win overall due to the superior takeoff experience over Philadelphia's iconic downtown and river system. While the landing view on the left is impressive, the takeoff spectacle of Philadelphia's urban core and the Delaware River provides more sustained visual interest for most passengers.
Flown PHL to ORF? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Philadelphia to Norfolk is 212 miles (341 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Chesapeake Bay region. Notable features include the Potomac River drainage basin to the west, the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Virginia (visible as a thin peninsula), and the Chesapeake Bay itself—a large, distinctive body of water that dominates the mid-flight view. The bay's width and the contrast between its water and surrounding land make it a reliable landmark at cruise altitude. The flight generally tracks south-southwest, so the bay appears on the left (east) side during cruise.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PHL
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Delaware River and Philadelphia's downtown skyline during the initial climb. PHL typically departs eastbound (Runways 27L/27R), so right-side passengers get a direct view of the city's core and the river's northern bend as the aircraft climbs out over the Delaware Valley.
Landing at ORF
LEFTLeft-side seats offer the best views during approach to ORF. Norfolk International typically uses Runways 05/23; if landing on Runway 23 (southbound), left-side passengers see Hampton Roads, the Elizabeth River, and Naval Station Norfolk—one of the world's largest naval bases. The approach path brings the aircraft directly over this distinctive water and military infrastructure.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Philadelphia International (PHL) to Norfolk International (ORF)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Philadelphia to Norfolk. Right-side seats win overall due to the superior takeoff experience over Philadelphia's iconic downtown and river system. While the landing view on the left is impressive, the takeoff spectacle of Philadelphia's urban core and the Delaware River provides more sustained visual interest for most passengers.
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. Right-side seats capture the Delaware River and Philadelphia's downtown skyline during the initial climb. PHL typically departs eastbound (Runways 27L/27R), so right-side passengers get a direct view of the city's core and the river's northern bend as the aircraft climbs out over the Delaware Valley. Notable sights include: Delaware River, Philadelphia downtown skyline (visible as a cluster of tall structures), Ben Franklin Bridge, Schuylkill River confluence.
What can I see when landing at Norfolk International in Norfolk?
When landing at Norfolk International (ORF), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer the best views during approach to ORF. Norfolk International typically uses Runways 05/23; if landing on Runway 23 (southbound), left-side passengers see Hampton Roads, the Elizabeth River, and Naval Station Norfolk—one of the world's largest naval bases. The approach path brings the aircraft directly over this distinctive water and military infrastructure. Notable sights include: Hampton Roads (the confluence of the James, Nansemond, and Elizabeth Rivers), Naval Station Norfolk, Elizabeth River, Newport News shipyard area across the water.
How long is the flight from Philadelphia to Norfolk?
The flight from Philadelphia International (PHL) to Norfolk International (ORF) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 212 miles (341 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Philadelphia to Norfolk flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Chesapeake Bay region. Notable features include the Potomac River drainage basin to the west, the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Virginia (visible as a thin peninsula), and the Chesapeake Bay itself—a large, distinctive body of water that dominates the mid-flight view. The bay's width and the contrast between its water and surrounding land make it a reliable landmark at cruise altitude. The flight generally tracks south-southwest, so the bay appears on the left (east) side during cruise.