While takeoff offers Finger Lakes views on the left, the landing approach on the right provides more sustained scenic interest with the Susquehanna River, Lancaster farmland, and Philadelphia approach. The landing sequence is longer and more visually rewarding.
Flown ROC to PHL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Rochester to Philadelphia is 257 miles (414 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Appalachian ridge lines (particularly Allegheny Front), Susquehanna River valley, transition from New York glacial terrain to Pennsylvania piedmont, scattered reservoirs and water bodies throughout central Pennsylvania
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ROC
LEFTLeft side offers views of Finger Lakes and Genesee River valley as you climb southeastward. Right side faces inland terrain with fewer distinctive features during initial climb.
Landing at PHL
RIGHTRight side provides views of the Susquehanna River, Lancaster County farmland, and the approach into Philadelphia from the northwest. Left side faces less visually distinctive terrain during descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Greater Rochester International (ROC) to Philadelphia International (PHL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Rochester to Philadelphia. While takeoff offers Finger Lakes views on the left, the landing approach on the right provides more sustained scenic interest with the Susquehanna River, Lancaster farmland, and Philadelphia approach. The landing sequence is longer and more visually rewarding.
What can I see during takeoff from Greater Rochester International in Rochester?
During takeoff from Greater Rochester International (ROC), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of Finger Lakes and Genesee River valley as you climb southeastward. Right side faces inland terrain with fewer distinctive features during initial climb. Notable sights include: Genesee River valley, Finger Lakes (Canandaigua Lake and Seneca Lake visible to the south), Lake Ontario shoreline to the north.
What can I see when landing at Philadelphia International in Philadelphia?
When landing at Philadelphia International (PHL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Susquehanna River, Lancaster County farmland, and the approach into Philadelphia from the northwest. Left side faces less visually distinctive terrain during descent. Notable sights include: Susquehanna River, Lancaster County agricultural landscape, Schuylkill River, Philadelphia skyline.
How long is the flight from Rochester to Philadelphia?
The flight from Greater Rochester International (ROC) to Philadelphia International (PHL) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 257 miles (414 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Rochester to Philadelphia flight path pass over?
Appalachian ridge lines (particularly Allegheny Front), Susquehanna River valley, transition from New York glacial terrain to Pennsylvania piedmont, scattered reservoirs and water bodies throughout central Pennsylvania