Both sides score equally at 2.5 due to the short flight duration (1h 15m) and relatively flat terrain between Montreal and Philadelphia. However, the right side edges ahead for the full flight experience: the takeoff offers superior views of the St. Lawrence River and Montreal's urban geography, while the cruise phase over upstate New York and Pennsylvania is equally unremarkable on both sides. The landing favors the left, but the takeoff advantage and the fact that passengers spend more time climbing out than descending makes right the marginal winner.
Flown YHU to PHL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Montreal to Philadelphia is 401 miles (645 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Finger Lakes region of New York (Seneca Lake, Cayuga Lake visible from altitude), Appalachian foothills of central Pennsylvania, Susquehanna River valley
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from YHU
RIGHTRight side captures the St. Lawrence River valley and Montreal urban area during initial climb-out. Runway 24R/24L departures (favored with southwest winds) turn southeast, offering views of the river, downtown Montreal skyline, and the Laurentian foothills to the north before the aircraft climbs above 5,000 feet.
Landing at PHL
LEFTLeft side (north) during approach to PHL offers views of the Delaware River, the Schuylkill River confluence, and Philadelphia's downtown skyline. Westbound arrivals on runways 27L/27R descend over the city and river system, providing clear sightlines to urban landmarks and water features.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from St Hubert (YHU) to Philadelphia International (PHL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Montreal to Philadelphia. Both sides score equally at 2.5 due to the short flight duration (1h 15m) and relatively flat terrain between Montreal and Philadelphia. However, the right side edges ahead for the full flight experience: the takeoff offers superior views of the St. Lawrence River and Montreal's urban geography, while the cruise phase over upstate New York and Pennsylvania is equally unremarkable on both sides. The landing favors the left, but the takeoff advantage and the fact that passengers spend more time climbing out than descending makes right the marginal winner.
What can I see during takeoff from St Hubert in Montreal?
During takeoff from St Hubert (YHU), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures the St. Lawrence River valley and Montreal urban area during initial climb-out. Runway 24R/24L departures (favored with southwest winds) turn southeast, offering views of the river, downtown Montreal skyline, and the Laurentian foothills to the north before the aircraft climbs above 5,000 feet. Notable sights include: St. Lawrence River, Montreal downtown core and Mount Royal, Laurentian Mountains to the north.
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. Left side (north) during approach to PHL offers views of the Delaware River, the Schuylkill River confluence, and Philadelphia's downtown skyline. Westbound arrivals on runways 27L/27R descend over the city and river system, providing clear sightlines to urban landmarks and water features. Notable sights include: Delaware River, Schuylkill River, Philadelphia downtown skyline and Benjamin Franklin Bridge.
How long is the flight from Montreal to Philadelphia?
The flight from St Hubert (YHU) to Philadelphia International (PHL) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 401 miles (645 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Montreal to Philadelphia flight path pass over?
Finger Lakes region of New York (Seneca Lake, Cayuga Lake visible from altitude), Appalachian foothills of central Pennsylvania, Susquehanna River valley