Loading map...
BDL → RDU
Which side of the plane to sit from Bradley International Airport (Windsor Locks) to Raleigh Durham International Airport (Raleigh-durham)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the winner for this coastal route, offering expansive views of the Long Island Sound, the Atlantic coastline, and the massive Chesapeake Bay during the mid-flight cruise.
Long Island Sound
Breathtaking views of the Connecticut coastline and the northern shores of Long Island shortly after takeoff.
NYC Skyline
On clear days, the Manhattan skyline and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge are visible in the distance to the west-southwest.
Jersey Shore
Aerial perspective of the New Jersey barrier islands and the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean.
Chesapeake Bay
A highlights of the flight, showcasing the intricate waterways, the Eastern Shore, and the massive Bay Bridge.
Kerr Lake
During the descent into RDU, look for the sprawling waters of Buggs Island Lake/Kerr Lake on the Virginia-North Carolina border.
Sit on this side for morning flights to witness the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. This side generally avoids the harsh direct afternoon sun, making it better for photography. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes after takeoff for the best coastal shots.
Connecticut River Valley
Lush green landscapes and the winding Connecticut River visible immediately after departing Bradley.
Philadelphia Skyline
Depending on the airway, the skyscrapers of Center City Philadelphia can often be spotted to the west.
Baltimore & DC Sprawl
The dense urban corridor of the Mid-Atlantic and the distinct layout of the capital region appear as you head south.
Virginia Piedmont
The transition from the coastal plain to the rolling hills and dense forests of rural Virginia during the descent.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the Appalachian foothills in the distance. During night flights, this side offers a spectacular 'string of pearls' view of the illuminated I-95 urban corridor.
Distance: 856 km (532 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 26 min
Departure: BDL (41.9388999939, -72.68319702149999)
Arrival: RDU (35.877601623535156, -78.7874984741211)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.