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LHR → PHL
Which side of the plane to sit from London Heathrow Airport (London) to Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior on this westbound route for its potential to showcase the southern tip of the Greenland ice sheet and the dramatic, rugged wilderness of the Canadian Maritimes.
Greenland Ice Cap
Depending on the day's North Atlantic Track, you may see the stunning white glaciers and fjords of southern Greenland.
Labrador Coast
The desolate and beautiful rocky terrain of the Canadian Shield, often dotted with snow and ice.
Maine & New England
Deep green forests and the jagged, rocky coastlines of the northernmost US states.
Delaware River
The winding river separating New Jersey and Pennsylvania, visible during the final minutes of the approach into PHL.
Philly Landmarks
Views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and the industrial waterfront as the plane aligns with the runway.
The right side faces north, providing more consistent, glare-free lighting for photography. This is the 'cool' side of the plane, often revealing icebergs in the North Atlantic during spring and summer months. If the flight path takes a more northerly route (common in winter), the views of Greenland's massive ice fields are unparalleled. Sit forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion.
Irish South Coast
Aerial views of the green pastures and rugged cliffs of County Cork and Kerry as you leave Europe.
Mid-Atlantic Sun
Direct views of the sun reflecting off the ocean, though this can cause significant glare during afternoon flights.
New York City Skyline
On clear days, the distant but distinct silhouettes of Manhattan's skyscrapers are visible during the descent.
New Jersey Coastline
Vibrant views of the Atlantic City boardwalk and the long barrier islands of the Jersey Shore.
The left side will face south, meaning you will have direct sunlight for the majority of this westbound daytime flight. Keep your window shade partially closed to prevent cabin heat, but open it as you cross the US border for views of the Atlantic coastline. This side is ideal for spotting the dense urban corridor of the Northeast United States.
Distance: 5,690 km (3,536 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 42 min
Departure: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)
Arrival: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Route Type: International
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