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CHS β PHL
Which side of the plane to sit from Charleston Air Force Base-International Airport (Charleston) to Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers an exceptional view of the Mid-Atlantic coastline, the expansive Chesapeake Bay, and the transition from the Atlantic Ocean to the Delaware River valley.
Outer Banks & Sound
View the delicate barrier islands of North Carolina and the vast Pamlico Sound to the east.
Naval Station Norfolk
See the world's largest naval base, often with aircraft carriers visible in the piers of the Elizabeth River.
Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
A remarkable engineering feat visible as a thin line cutting across the mouth of the bay.
Delaware Bay & Cape May
The distinct hook of Cape May and the ferry path across the bay are prominent landmarks.
Delaware River Port
As the plane descends, watch the heavy industrial shipping and tankers moving along the river toward Philadelphia.
The right side is best for morning flights to see the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. This side consistently offers better views of water features and coastal geography. Ensure your window is clear for the approach into PHL, as the descent over the Delaware River is one of the most scenic parts of the trip.
Francis Marion National Forest
Immediately after takeoff from CHS, view the dense pine stands and wetlands of South Carolina.
Raleigh-Durham Piedmont
Glimpse the sprawling Research Triangle area and the rolling hills of the North Carolina interior.
Washington D.C. Skyline
On clear days, the Washington Monument and Capitol dome are visible on the horizon as you cross into Maryland.
Baltimore Inner Harbor
Look for the distinct urban density and waterfront of Baltimore as the flight nears the Delaware border.
Susquehanna River
A striking view of the wide river mouth and the historic bridges connecting Havre de Grace and Perryville.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the eastern sun. On clear days, this side provides the best chance to spot the national monuments in D.C. from a distance. During the final descent into PHL from the west, the left side often captures the Philadelphia city skyline just before touchdown.
Distance: 886 km (551 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min
Departure: CHS (32.89860153, -80.04049683)
Arrival: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Route Type: Domestic
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