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IAH destination photo
PHL destination photo

IAHPHL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers spectacular views of the Appalachian mountain chain, the rolling Shenandoah Valley, and a high probability of seeing the Philadelphia skyline during the final descent into PHL.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Mississippi River

Watch for the massive, winding curves of the Mississippi River as you cross near the Tennessee-Arkansas border region.

⛰️

Great Smoky Mountains

Aerial views of the dense forests and mist-covered peaks of the Southern Appalachians.

🏘️

Shenandoah Valley

The distinct ridge-and-valley formation of the Virginia landscape provides a rhythmic and beautiful pattern from cruising altitude.

🏙️

Philadelphia Skyline

On many approaches to PHL, the left side provides a direct view of Center City, including the Comcast Center and Liberty Place.

🚤

Susquehanna River

A wide, shallow river crossing just before the final descent into the Philadelphia metro area.

For the best mountain photography, aim for a morning flight when the sun is behind the plane, illuminating the Appalachian ridges. During the descent, keep your camera ready for the Philadelphia skyline; it often appears about 5-8 minutes before touchdown if landing towards the West.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏖️

Gulf Coast Horizon

Shortly after takeoff from IAH, you can see the distant blue of the Gulf of Mexico to the South.

🌲

Deep South Forests

Expansive views of the pine-heavy timberlands across Alabama and Georgia.

💧

Chesapeake Bay

On clear days, the shimmering waters of the upper Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries are visible to the East.

⚓

Delaware River & Ports

Detailed views of the industrial shipping ports and bridges connecting Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

🏟️

South Philly Sports Complex

A close-up view of the Eagles, Phillies, and Flyers stadiums as the plane aligns with the runway.

Choose the right side for sunset flights to watch the sky turn orange over the coastal plains. This side is also excellent for seeing the intricate network of the Delaware River during the final approach. If the flight path takes you over D.C., you might catch a distant glimpse of the National Mall.

Top Activities in Philadelphia
Route Information

Distance: 2,129 km (1,323 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 50 min

Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)

Arrival: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)

Route Type: Domestic

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