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PHL → ART
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to Watertown International Airport (Watertown)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a distinct advantage with sweeping views of the Finger Lakes and the southern coastline of Lake Ontario during the descent into Watertown.
Philadelphia Suburbs
Expansive views of the dense urban grid transitioning into the rolling greenery of suburban Pennsylvania.
Susquehanna River
The winding path of one of the oldest rivers in the world cutting through the Appalachian ridges.
Finger Lakes
Stunning aerial perspectives of the long, narrow glacial lakes including Seneca and Cayuga.
Lake Ontario Shoreline
The massive horizon of the Great Lake becomes visible as the aircraft maneuvers for landing.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the east. The primary highlight is the Finger Lakes region roughly 30 minutes into the flight; look for the distinct 'fingers' of water. In winter, the frozen shorelines of Lake Ontario provide high-contrast, dramatic scenery.
Poconos Mountains
Dense forests and rolling peaks of the popular resort region in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Delaware Water Gap
The famous geographic feature where the Delaware River cuts through the Kittatinny Ridge.
Syracuse Skyline
Views of the urban center and Onondaga Lake as the flight passes through Central New York.
Tug Hill Plateau
A remote, elevated wilderness area known for its immense natural beauty and heavy winter snowfall.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun moves west, providing soft lighting for photography. Keep an eye out for the Delaware Water Gap shortly after departure. During peak autumn (October), the fall foliage across the Poconos and Tug Hill is world-class from this vantage point.
Distance: 463 km (288 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 46 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: ART (43.99190139770508, -76.02169799804688)
Route Type: Domestic
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