While takeoff favors the right, the landing view of Halifax Harbour and the Atlantic coastline is more dramatic and geographically distinctive. The approach into YHZ offers superior scenery that outweighs the Philadelphia departure advantage.
Flown PHL to YHZ? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Philadelphia to Halifax is 691 miles (1,111 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Gulf of Maine and Bay of Fundy region. At cruise altitude, you'll pass over the Maine coast (inland from the window), then over the Bay of Fundy's open waters. The Fundy coastline with its dramatic tidal ranges becomes visible during descent into Halifax. Nova Scotia's interior forests dominate the landscape inland from the approach path. The transition from the continental US to Maritime Canada is marked by increasing water features and rocky, forested terrain.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PHL
RIGHTPHL typically departs eastbound (Runways 27L/R or 09L/R depending on wind). Right-side seats offer views of the Delaware River estuary and the urban Philadelphia skyline as you climb out over the city. Left seats face inland toward Pennsylvania.
Landing at YHZ
LEFTYHZ approaches from the west typically use Runway 05 or 23 depending on wind. Left-side seats during descent offer views of the Halifax Harbour, the Dartmouth waterfront, and the Atlantic coastline. Right seats face inland over Nova Scotia's interior forests.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Philadelphia International (PHL) to Halifax International (YHZ)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Philadelphia to Halifax. While takeoff favors the right, the landing view of Halifax Harbour and the Atlantic coastline is more dramatic and geographically distinctive. The approach into YHZ offers superior scenery that outweighs the Philadelphia departure advantage.
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 27L/R or 09L/R depending on wind). Right-side seats offer views of the Delaware River estuary and the urban Philadelphia skyline as you climb out over the city. Left seats face inland toward Pennsylvania. Notable sights include: Delaware River, Philadelphia skyline (Center City towers), Ben Franklin Bridge, Schuylkill River confluence.
What can I see when landing at Halifax International in Halifax?
When landing at Halifax International (YHZ), sit on the Left side for the best views. YHZ approaches from the west typically use Runway 05 or 23 depending on wind. Left-side seats during descent offer views of the Halifax Harbour, the Dartmouth waterfront, and the Atlantic coastline. Right seats face inland over Nova Scotia's interior forests. Notable sights include: Halifax Harbour, Dartmouth waterfront, Atlantic Ocean, McNabs Island.
How long is the flight from Philadelphia to Halifax?
The flight from Philadelphia International (PHL) to Halifax International (YHZ) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 691 miles (1,111 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Philadelphia to Halifax flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Gulf of Maine and Bay of Fundy region. At cruise altitude, you'll pass over the Maine coast (inland from the window), then over the Bay of Fundy's open waters. The Fundy coastline with its dramatic tidal ranges becomes visible during descent into Halifax. Nova Scotia's interior forests dominate the landscape inland from the approach path. The transition from the continental US to Maritime Canada is marked by increasing water features and rocky, forested terrain.