Both sides score equally for the full flight due to the route's geography: the cruise phase over the Appalachian foothills and Tennessee valley offers similar views from either side. However, the right side edges ahead slightly due to a superior landing sequence with clear views of Atlanta's downtown skyline and the Chattahoochee River during approach to PDK, whereas the left side landing view is dominated by suburban sprawl.
Flown PHX to PDK? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Phoenix to Atlanta is 1,589 miles (2,557 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
Ozark Plateau (Missouri/Arkansas), Mississippi River valley, Tennessee River valley, Appalachian foothills (eastern Tennessee/northern Georgia), Chattahoochee River valley
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PHX
LEFTLeft side (north) offers views of Phoenix's urban sprawl and the Salt River valley during climb-out. Right side faces open desert with minimal landmarks during initial ascent.
Landing at PDK
RIGHTRight side (north) during approach to PDK captures the Atlanta metropolitan area, including downtown skyline and the Chattahoochee River valley. Left side faces open suburban sprawl with fewer distinctive landmarks.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to DeKalb Peachtree Airport (PDK)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Phoenix to Atlanta. Both sides score equally for the full flight due to the route's geography: the cruise phase over the Appalachian foothills and Tennessee valley offers similar views from either side. However, the right side edges ahead slightly due to a superior landing sequence with clear views of Atlanta's downtown skyline and the Chattahoochee River during approach to PDK, whereas the left side landing view is dominated by suburban sprawl.
What can I see during takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International in Phoenix?
During takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side (north) offers views of Phoenix's urban sprawl and the Salt River valley during climb-out. Right side faces open desert with minimal landmarks during initial ascent. Notable sights include: Phoenix metropolitan area, Salt River, Camelback Mountain (distant), McDowell Mountains.
What can I see when landing at DeKalb Peachtree Airport in Atlanta?
When landing at DeKalb Peachtree Airport (PDK), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (north) during approach to PDK captures the Atlanta metropolitan area, including downtown skyline and the Chattahoochee River valley. Left side faces open suburban sprawl with fewer distinctive landmarks. Notable sights include: Atlanta downtown skyline, Chattahoochee River, Stone Mountain (distant), Peachtree Creek.
How long is the flight from Phoenix to Atlanta?
The flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to DeKalb Peachtree Airport (PDK) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,589 miles (2,557 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Phoenix to Atlanta flight path pass over?
Ozark Plateau (Missouri/Arkansas), Mississippi River valley, Tennessee River valley, Appalachian foothills (eastern Tennessee/northern Georgia), Chattahoochee River valley