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FRA destination photo
PHL destination photo

FRAPHL

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior scenic experience, featuring the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, the spectacular ice sheets of Southern Greenland, and a high probability of seeing the New York City skyline during the descent into Philadelphia.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
⛰️

Scottish Highlands

Dramatic mountain ranges and deep lochs visible as the flight path crosses northern Britain.

🧊

Greenland Ice Sheet

Stunning vistas of massive glaciers, jagged fjords, and floating icebergs along the southern tip of Greenland.

🌲

Labrador Wilderness

The vast, untouched boreal forests and crystalline lakes of northeastern Canada.

🗽

Manhattan Skyline

Often visible on the right during the 'PHLBO' or 'BOOUE' arrival routes into Philadelphia, providing a clear view of NYC.

🏟️

South Philly Sports Complex

Direct views of the Eagles, Phillies, and Flyers stadiums just moments before touchdown.

The Greenland crossing is the absolute highlight; it usually occurs 4 to 5 hours into the flight. Ensure your window shade is up for this. During the descent, the right side often gets a spectacular long-distance view of the New York City skyline and Jersey City before the plane turns south toward Philadelphia.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🌊

English Channel

Aerial views of one of the world's busiest shipping lanes and the white cliffs of the southern UK coast.

🇨🇦

Nova Scotia

The rugged, rocky coastline and deep blue bays of the Canadian Maritimes as you re-enter land.

🏖️

Cape Cod & Islands

The iconic hook-shaped peninsula of Massachusetts, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket visible from high altitude.

🏙️

Atlantic City

The Jersey Shore coastline including the casinos and boardwalk of Atlantic City during the final descent.

⚓

Delaware River

The winding river border between New Jersey and Pennsylvania leading directly into the airport approach.

The left side is ideal for catching the first glimpse of North America at Nova Scotia. On clear days, look for the distinct shapes of Cape Cod and Long Island about 60-90 minutes before arrival. For the best lighting, choose a morning departure from Frankfurt to keep the sun behind the plane for most of the journey.

Top Activities in Philadelphia
Route Information

Distance: 6,339 km (3,939 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 27 min

Departure: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)

Arrival: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)

Route Type: International

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