Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery: Pittsburgh's river system and urban core during departure, then the Appalachian plateau and Ohio River valley during the westbound climb. While the landing approach into Palm Springs favors the left, the extended westbound flight path over the Appalachian region and the visual interest of Pittsburgh's geography make right-side seating the better overall choice.
Flown PIT to PSP? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Pittsburgh to Palm Springs is 2,035 miles (3,274 km), a flight of about 5 hours.
The flight path westbound crosses the Appalachian plateau, with the Ohio River visible near the Kentucky-Ohio border, followed by the Mississippi River valley near St. Louis. Crossing into the Great Plains, the landscape transitions to flatter terrain. Over New Mexico and Arizona, the Colorado Plateau becomes visible with its distinctive mesas and canyons. The final approach into Palm Springs crosses the Colorado Desert and San Gorgonio Pass before descending into the Coachella Valley.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from PIT
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Allegheny River and Pittsburgh's downtown skyline during the initial climb-out westward. The river's distinctive curves and the Golden Triangle district are clearly visible before the aircraft banks southwest toward the cruising altitude.
Landing at PSP
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the San Jacinto Mountains and the Coachella Valley during descent into Palm Springs. The dramatic mountain ridge and desert floor are striking during the final approach from the northeast.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Pittsburgh International (PIT) to Palm Springs International (PSP)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Pittsburgh to Palm Springs. Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery: Pittsburgh's river system and urban core during departure, then the Appalachian plateau and Ohio River valley during the westbound climb. While the landing approach into Palm Springs favors the left, the extended westbound flight path over the Appalachian region and the visual interest of Pittsburgh's geography make right-side seating the better overall choice.
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. Right-side seats offer views of the Allegheny River and Pittsburgh's downtown skyline during the initial climb-out westward. The river's distinctive curves and the Golden Triangle district are clearly visible before the aircraft banks southwest toward the cruising altitude. Notable sights include: Allegheny River, Pittsburgh downtown skyline, Monongahela River confluence, Ohio River valley to the south.
What can I see when landing at Palm Springs International in Palm Springs?
When landing at Palm Springs International (PSP), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the San Jacinto Mountains and the Coachella Valley during descent into Palm Springs. The dramatic mountain ridge and desert floor are striking during the final approach from the northeast. Notable sights include: San Jacinto Mountains, Coachella Valley floor, San Gorgonio Pass, desert terrain and scattered development.
How long is the flight from Pittsburgh to Palm Springs?
The flight from Pittsburgh International (PIT) to Palm Springs International (PSP) takes about 5 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 2,035 miles (3,274 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Pittsburgh to Palm Springs flight path pass over?
The flight path westbound crosses the Appalachian plateau, with the Ohio River visible near the Kentucky-Ohio border, followed by the Mississippi River valley near St. Louis. Crossing into the Great Plains, the landscape transitions to flatter terrain. Over New Mexico and Arizona, the Colorado Plateau becomes visible with its distinctive mesas and canyons. The final approach into Palm Springs crosses the Colorado Desert and San Gorgonio Pass before descending into the Coachella Valley.