While takeoff is fairly flat and unremarkable on both sides, the left side wins overall because the Boston Harbor and skyline approach is the single most scenic and distinctive moment of this short flight.
Flown RDU to BOS? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Raleigh-Durham to Boston is 611 miles (984 km), a flight of about 1 hour 45 minutes.
Mid-Atlantic coastal plain, Chesapeake Bay region visible in the distance, Long Island Sound approaching Connecticut coastline
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from RDU
RIGHTDeparting RDU toward the southwest then curving northeast, right-side passengers get a view back over the Raleigh-Durham urban sprawl and rolling Piedmont terrain before the turn onto course. It's modest but more visually varied than the flat farmland to the left.
Landing at BOS
LEFTArrivals into BOS from the south typically swing over Boston Harbor and the city skyline before landing on the runways facing south, giving left-side passengers a dramatic view of the harbor islands, downtown towers, and the Atlantic coastline.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Raleigh Durham International (RDU) to General Edward Lawrence Logan International (BOS)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Raleigh-Durham to Boston. While takeoff is fairly flat and unremarkable on both sides, the left side wins overall because the Boston Harbor and skyline approach is the single most scenic and distinctive moment of this short flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Raleigh Durham International in Raleigh-Durham?
During takeoff from Raleigh Durham International (RDU), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing RDU toward the southwest then curving northeast, right-side passengers get a view back over the Raleigh-Durham urban sprawl and rolling Piedmont terrain before the turn onto course. It's modest but more visually varied than the flat farmland to the left. Notable sights include: Raleigh-Durham suburban sprawl, Falls Lake, Piedmont rolling hills.
What can I see when landing at General Edward Lawrence Logan International in Boston?
When landing at General Edward Lawrence Logan International (BOS), sit on the Left side for the best views. Arrivals into BOS from the south typically swing over Boston Harbor and the city skyline before landing on the runways facing south, giving left-side passengers a dramatic view of the harbor islands, downtown towers, and the Atlantic coastline. Notable sights include: Boston Harbor and its islands, Downtown Boston skyline, Logan Airport's harborside runways, Atlantic coastline.
How long is the flight from Raleigh-Durham to Boston?
The flight from Raleigh Durham International (RDU) to General Edward Lawrence Logan International (BOS) takes about 1 hour 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 611 miles (984 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Raleigh-Durham to Boston flight path pass over?
Mid-Atlantic coastal plain, Chesapeake Bay region visible in the distance, Long Island Sound approaching Connecticut coastline