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ELM → PHL
Which side of the plane to sit from Elmira Corning Regional Airport (Elmira) to Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side generally offers the most iconic approach views of the Philadelphia skyline and the winding Delaware River, especially during the descent from the north.
The Endless Mountains
Dramatic views of the rolling Appalachian plateau and the deep valleys of northern Pennsylvania shortly after takeoff.
Lehigh Valley Urban Center
Bird's-eye view of the Allentown and Bethlehem metropolitan area and the historic Bethlehem Steel site.
Delaware River Loop
Aerial perspective of the river separating Pennsylvania and New Jersey as the aircraft maneuvers for landing.
Philadelphia Skyline
Excellent views of Center City skyscrapers like the Comcast Technology Center during the final approach phase.
Sit on the left for the highest probability of seeing the Philly skyline on approach. Morning flights offer great lighting as the sun rises in the east, illuminating the mountains. Look for the distinct blue-green patches of the Poconos in the distance during mid-flight.
Susquehanna River
Views of the wide, shallow Susquehanna River cutting through the ridge-and-valley Appalachians to the west.
Lancaster County Patchwork
The iconic, perfectly manicured agricultural fields and Amish farmsteads of Lancaster and Berks counties.
South Philly Sports Complex
As the plane aligns with the runway, you may see Lincoln Financial Field and Citizens Bank Park to the south.
The right side is ideal for photographers interested in geometric patterns of farmland. During sunset, this side provides a warm glow over the rural PA landscape. Watch for the Schuylkill River as it snakes toward the city during the final 10 minutes of the flight.
Distance: 290 km (180 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 29 min
Departure: ELM (42.1599006652832, -76.8916015625)
Arrival: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Route Type: Domestic
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