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BWI destination photo
PIT destination photo

BWIPIT

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most dramatic views of the Appalachian mountain folds and the winding Potomac River valley during this short hop across the Mid-Atlantic.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Baltimore Waterfront

Excellent views of the Inner Harbor, M&T Bank Stadium, and Camden Yards shortly after departure from BWI.

🌊

Potomac River Meanders

Watch the river carve deep S-curves through the landscape near the Maryland and West Virginia border.

⛰️

Appalachian Ridges

Stunning aerial perspective of the parallel ridges and valleys that define the geography of Central Pennsylvania.

🌲

Ohiopyle State Park

Spot the rugged terrain and the deep gorge cut by the Youghiogheny River as you cross into Western Pennsylvania.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare and enjoy better lighting on the mountain ridges. Keep your window shade up for the entire flight, as the cruising altitude is low and the scenery changes rapidly on this 45-minute journey.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏠

Historic Frederick

Look for the clustered spires and colonial grid of one of Maryland's oldest cities north of the flight path.

🛣️

Sideling Hill Cut

A visible notch in the ridge where I-70 was carved through the mountain, showcasing layers of geological history.

⛷️

Laurel Highlands Resorts

In winter, the snowy runs of Seven Springs and Hidden Valley ski resorts are easily identifiable.

🏙️

Pittsburgh Golden Triangle

During the final approach into PIT, you often get a perfect view of the confluence of the three rivers and the downtown skyline.

The right side is superior for spotting the Pittsburgh skyline during the standard arrival patterns. Look for the massive 'Sideling Hill' road cut about halfway through the flight—it is one of the most distinct man-made geographic features visible from the air.

Top Activities in Pittsburgh
Route Information

Distance: 338 km (210 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 34 min

Departure: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)

Arrival: PIT (40.49150085, -80.23290253)

Route Type: Domestic

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