While takeoff favors the right side, the landing approach into BWI on the left provides more dramatic and sustained views of the Chesapeake Bay region and the distinctive Patapsco estuary geography. The landing view is more visually rewarding overall.
Flown PIT to BWI? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Pittsburgh to Baltimore is 210 miles (338 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Appalachian foothills of western Maryland and West Virginia. Notable features include the Monongahela River valley south of Pittsburgh, the ridgelines of the Laurel Highlands, and the transition into the Piedmont region as you approach Maryland. The Potomac River valley becomes visible in the final approach phase. Clear days offer views of the ridge-and-valley topography characteristic of the Appalachian system, with the terrain gradually flattening as you move eastward toward the Chesapeake Bay coastal plain.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PIT
RIGHTPIT typically departs westbound (Runway 28L/R) or northbound (Runway 10L/R). Right-side seats offer the best view of the Allegheny River valley and the city's Golden Triangle district as you climb out. You'll see the confluence of the three rivers and the downtown skyline receding beneath you.
Landing at BWI
LEFTBWI typically lands from the east on Runway 15L/R or from the north on Runway 10L/R. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Patapsco River estuary, the Chesapeake Bay shoreline, and the approach path over Anne Arundel County's water features. You'll see the distinctive geography of the Baltimore harbor approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Pittsburgh International (PIT) to Baltimore Washington International (BWI)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Pittsburgh to Baltimore. While takeoff favors the right side, the landing approach into BWI on the left provides more dramatic and sustained views of the Chesapeake Bay region and the distinctive Patapsco estuary geography. The landing view is more visually rewarding overall.
What can I see during takeoff from Pittsburgh International in Pittsburgh?
During takeoff from Pittsburgh International (PIT), sit on the Right side for the best views. PIT typically departs westbound (Runway 28L/R) or northbound (Runway 10L/R). Right-side seats offer the best view of the Allegheny River valley and the city's Golden Triangle district as you climb out. You'll see the confluence of the three rivers and the downtown skyline receding beneath you. Notable sights include: Allegheny River, Monongahela River, Golden Triangle downtown Pittsburgh, Ohio River confluence.
What can I see when landing at Baltimore Washington International in Baltimore?
When landing at Baltimore Washington International (BWI), sit on the Left side for the best views. BWI typically lands from the east on Runway 15L/R or from the north on Runway 10L/R. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Patapsco River estuary, the Chesapeake Bay shoreline, and the approach path over Anne Arundel County's water features. You'll see the distinctive geography of the Baltimore harbor approach. Notable sights include: Patapsco River estuary, Chesapeake Bay, Anne Arundel County marshlands, Baltimore harbor.
How long is the flight from Pittsburgh to Baltimore?
The flight from Pittsburgh International (PIT) to Baltimore Washington International (BWI) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 210 miles (338 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Pittsburgh to Baltimore flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Appalachian foothills of western Maryland and West Virginia. Notable features include the Monongahela River valley south of Pittsburgh, the ridgelines of the Laurel Highlands, and the transition into the Piedmont region as you approach Maryland. The Potomac River valley becomes visible in the final approach phase. Clear days offer views of the ridge-and-valley topography characteristic of the Appalachian system, with the terrain gradually flattening as you move eastward toward the Chesapeake Bay coastal plain.