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MIA → PHL
Which side of the plane to sit from Miami International Airport (Miami) to Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the United States East Coast, featuring continuous views of the Florida coastline, space launch complexes, the Outer Banks, and the dense urban landscapes of the Northeast Corridor.
Everglades & Miami Sprawl
Immediately after takeoff, view the unique ecosystem of the Everglades transitioning into the dense suburban grid of West Miami.
Kennedy Space Center
Visible as you fly north along the Florida coast; look for the massive VAB building and launch pads at Cape Canaveral.
The Outer Banks
A stunning perspective of the thin barrier islands of North Carolina, including Cape Hatteras and its surrounding shoals.
Chesapeake Bay
Cross over the mouth of the world's largest estuary, spotting the engineering marvel of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel.
Philadelphia Skyline
On final approach into PHL (especially when landing on Runway 27R), the Center City skyscrapers appear prominently on the left.
Choose a window seat on the left for daytime flights to maximize land visibility. If the flight path stays inland, you will see a succession of major cities like Savannah and Richmond. For the best photography, avoid seats directly over the wing which can obstruct the view of the coastline and the PHL approach.
Biscayne Bay
During the initial climb, enjoy deep turquoise waters and the luxury high-rises lining Miami Beach and Key Biscayne.
Atlantic Horizon
On morning flights, this side provides a spectacular view of the sunrise over the open ocean.
Jersey Shore
As the plane begins its descent, look for the coastal towns and beaches of Southern New Jersey and the Atlantic City skyline.
Delaware Bay
A clear view of the shipping lanes and the widening mouth of the Delaware River as you enter Pennsylvania airspace.
The right side is best for early morning departures to catch the sunrise. It also offers a less obstructed view of the Atlantic Ocean's blue-to-green gradients. During winter months, this side remains warmer due to the morning sun hitting the windows.
Distance: 1,634 km (1,015 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 11 min
Departure: MIA (25.79319953918457, -80.29060363769531)
Arrival: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Route Type: Domestic
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