While takeoff offers urban scenery, the landing approach provides more visually distinctive natural features—the Finger Lakes and Genesee River valley are more dramatic and geographically significant than Philadelphia's urban sprawl. Right side captures the transition from rural landscape to city, which is more engaging for the majority of the flight.
Flown PHL to ROC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Philadelphia to Rochester is 257 miles (414 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Susquehanna River valley (Pennsylvania-New York border region), Appalachian foothills, transition from Mid-Atlantic industrial landscape to Finger Lakes agricultural region, multiple river valleys including the Chemung River system
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PHL
LEFTLeft side offers views of the Delaware River and the urban grid of Philadelphia as you climb out northwestward. You'll see the Schuylkill River confluence and the city's downtown core receding beneath you.
Landing at ROC
RIGHTRight side during descent into Rochester provides views of the Finger Lakes region and Genesee River valley. You'll see the landscape transition from agricultural areas to the Rochester urban area as you approach from the south.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Philadelphia International (PHL) to Greater Rochester International (ROC)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Philadelphia to Rochester. While takeoff offers urban scenery, the landing approach provides more visually distinctive natural features—the Finger Lakes and Genesee River valley are more dramatic and geographically significant than Philadelphia's urban sprawl. Right side captures the transition from rural landscape to city, which is more engaging for the majority of the flight.
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 and the urban grid of Philadelphia as you climb out northwestward. You'll see the Schuylkill River confluence and the city's downtown core receding beneath you. Notable sights include: Delaware River, Schuylkill River, Philadelphia downtown skyline, Ben Franklin Bridge.
What can I see when landing at Greater Rochester International in Rochester?
When landing at Greater Rochester International (ROC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side during descent into Rochester provides views of the Finger Lakes region and Genesee River valley. You'll see the landscape transition from agricultural areas to the Rochester urban area as you approach from the south. Notable sights include: Genesee River valley, Finger Lakes (Canandaigua Lake visible to the west), Rochester urban area, agricultural farmland.
How long is the flight from Philadelphia to Rochester?
The flight from Philadelphia International (PHL) to Greater Rochester International (ROC) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 257 miles (414 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Philadelphia to Rochester flight path pass over?
Susquehanna River valley (Pennsylvania-New York border region), Appalachian foothills, transition from Mid-Atlantic industrial landscape to Finger Lakes agricultural region, multiple river valleys including the Chemung River system