About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Philadelphia International (PHL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Phoenix to Philadelphia. The left side wins overall because while the right side has a slight edge at PHX departure, the left side delivers the superior view for most of the flight: crossing New Mexico and Texas you see more of the Rio Grande valley and southern Rockies foothills, and the Philadelphia approach on the left is genuinely spectacular with the river, bridges, and skyline all in frame simultaneously.
What can I see during takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International in Phoenix?
During takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Right side for the best views. PHX typically departs east on runway 26R/8 or uses runways oriented east-west. Departing eastbound, the right (south) side gives you a clear view of South Mountain Park and the Estrella Mountains. The left side faces north toward downtown Phoenix and Camelback Mountain, but the south side terrain is more dramatic on climb-out. Notable sights include: South Mountain Park, Estrella Mountains, Salt River bed, Superstition Mountains (distant to east-southeast).
What can I see when landing at Philadelphia International in Philadelphia?
When landing at Philadelphia International (PHL), sit on the Left side for the best views. PHL typically lands westbound on runways 27L/27R, approaching over South Philadelphia and the Delaware River. The left (south) side gives you a clear view of the Delaware River, the Philadelphia Navy Yard, and the city skyline across the river. Right side faces north toward the suburbs with less visual interest on approach. Notable sights include: Delaware River, Philadelphia Navy Yard, Center City Philadelphia skyline, Walt Whitman Bridge.
How long is the flight from Phoenix to Philadelphia?
The flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Philadelphia International (PHL) takes Approximately 4 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Phoenix to Philadelphia flight path pass over?
The route crosses the Sonoran Desert into New Mexico, passing near Albuquerque and the Rio Grande valley. Over Texas the terrain flattens into the Llano Estacado and then the rolling plains. Crossing into the Midwest the Mississippi River is visible near St. Louis. The Appalachian Mountains appear as a broad corrugated ridgeline system across Pennsylvania before descending into the Philadelphia coastal plain.