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PHF → ATL
Which side of the plane to sit from Newport News Williamsburg International Airport (Newport News) to Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the James River and Hampton Roads upon departure, the Charlotte skyline mid-flight, and the most iconic views of downtown Atlanta during the final descent.
Hampton Roads & Shipyards
Immediately after takeoff, view the massive naval infrastructure and the confluence of the James River and Chesapeake Bay.
Lake Gaston
A sprawling reservoir straddling the Virginia and North Carolina border, offering beautiful blue water contrast against green forests.
Charlotte Skyline
As the flight progresses southwest, the 'Queen City' skyline is often visible to the south, highlighting the Bank of America Stadium.
Lake Hartwell
A massive, jagged-edged reservoir on the South Carolina and Georgia border, signaling the final leg of the journey.
Downtown Atlanta
During the standard approach to ATL from the east, passengers on the left get a clear, close-up view of the Midtown and Downtown skyscrapers.
Sit on the left (Port side) for the best views of the Atlanta skyline during landing. Early morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the landscape and city buildings without glare. Look for the massive Newport News Shipbuilding facilities right after wheels-up.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Distant but stunning views of the Appalachian mountain range silhouettes to the northwest throughout the cruise phase.
Piedmont Plateau
A patchwork of rolling hills, agricultural fields, and dense deciduous forests stretching across the Carolinas.
Lake Lanier
The primary water source for Atlanta, this large lake is a key landmark when beginning the descent into the metro area.
Stone Mountain
A massive quartz monzonite dome rising 825 feet above the surrounding terrain, located just east of Atlanta.
ATL Airport Layout
If the flight approaches from the north, you'll get a sprawling view of one of the world's busiest airport complexes before touchdown.
The right side is perfect for spotting Stone Mountain shortly before landing. Afternoon flights on this side may experience significant sun glare, so bring sunglasses. Keep an eye out for the Greensboro/Winston-Salem 'Triad' area roughly halfway through the flight.
Distance: 817 km (508 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min
Departure: PHF (37.13190079, -76.49299622)
Arrival: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)
Route Type: Domestic
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