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PHL → ATL
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the rolling peaks of the Appalachian Mountains, the Potomac River, and often a distant view of the Washington D.C. skyline, followed by a dramatic approach into Atlanta.
Washington D.C. Metro
On a clear day, the monuments of the National Mall and the winding Potomac River are visible shortly after crossing into Maryland.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Stunning views of the ancient, undulating ridges of the Appalachian chain as you fly parallel to the mountains.
Shenandoah Valley
A patchwork of lush farmland and dense forests tucked between the Blue Ridge and the Alleghenies.
Lake Hartwell
The massive, jagged reservoir on the South Carolina-Georgia border marks the final stretch toward Atlanta.
Atlanta Skyline
Depending on the runway approach, the right side often gets a direct view of the Buckhead and Midtown skyscrapers.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Appalachian ridges. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes after takeoff for D.C. landmarks and again during the last 15 minutes of the flight for a sweeping view of the Atlanta metro area sprawl and skyline.
Delaware River & Bay
Immediately after takeoff from PHL, enjoy views of the winding Delaware River as it expands toward the Atlantic.
Chesapeake Bay
Aerial perspective of the massive estuary, including the many inlets and bridges of the Maryland and Virginia coastlines.
Richmond, Virginia
The state capital is often visible as the flight path tracks southwest through the heart of the Mid-Atlantic.
Roanoke Rapids Lake
A beautiful reservoir system on the border of North Carolina and Virginia, providing a stark blue contrast to the green forests.
Stone Mountain
As the flight descends into ATL, look for this massive isolated granite dome rising from the Georgia landscape.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is particularly scenic during the fall when the coastal plains transition into vibrant autumn colors. During the final descent, watch for the unique geological formation of Stone Mountain east of the city.
Distance: 1,072 km (666 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 26 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)
Route Type: Domestic
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