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BWI destination photo
BUF destination photo

BWIBUF

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a superior perspective of the rhythmic Appalachian ridge-and-valley formations and a scenic approach over the eastern shore of Lake Erie towards Buffalo.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Baltimore Skyline

Excellent views of the Inner Harbor and downtown Baltimore immediately after departing BWI.

⛰️

Appalachian Ridges

Dramatic views of the linear mountain ridges stretching across central Pennsylvania.

🛶

Raystown Lake

The largest lake entirely within Pennsylvania, featuring a distinctive winding shoreline.

🌊

Lake Erie Coastline

As the plane descends, enjoy views of the shoreline stretching toward the city of Erie and beyond.

🌉

Buffalo Waterfront

A clear view of the Buffalo Skyway, Canalside, and the industrial heritage of the Lake Erie waterfront.

Choose the left side for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Allegheny Plateau. During descent, look for the 'Peace Bridge' connecting the US and Canada. This side avoids the morning sun glare when heading north-northwest.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Susquehanna River

Watch the massive river system carve through the mountains near Harrisburg and Williamsport.

🏈

State College

On clear days, Beaver Stadium and the Penn State campus are often visible in the distance.

🍷

Finger Lakes

Distant views of the southern tips of the slender glacial lakes in Western New York.

🌲

Allegheny National Forest

Expansive views of the dense, rolling forest canopy of Northern Pennsylvania.

💧

Niagara Falls Mist

On the final approach, look north to see the massive white plume of mist rising from Niagara Falls.

The right side is ideal for morning flights to enjoy illuminated landscapes without direct glare. Keep an eye out for the Genesee River Gorge (Letchworth State Park) during the latter half of the flight if the path is slightly east.

Top Activities in Buffalo
Route Information

Distance: 453 km (281 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 45 min

Departure: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)

Arrival: BUF (42.94049835, -78.73220062)

Route Type: Domestic

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