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PHL → AUA
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to Queen Beatrix International Airport (Oranjestad)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior visual experience, featuring a continuous progression from the U.S. East Coast barrier islands to the vibrant turquoise shallows of the Bahamas and the mountainous terrain of Hispaniola before the final descent along Aruba's famous western beaches.
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The Outer Banks
Stunning views of the thin ribbon of North Carolina's barrier islands including Cape Hatteras.
The Bahamas
Aerial perspective of the Great Bahama Bank, showing the stark contrast between deep navy trenches and shallow turquoise sands.
Dominican Republic
The flight path typically crosses Hispaniola, offering views of the Cordillera Central, the Caribbean's highest mountain range.
Aruba Hotel Strip
During descent, look out for the high-rise resorts of Palm Beach and the white sands of Eagle Beach.
Philadelphia Skyline
A perfect view of Center City and the sports complex immediately after lifting off from PHL.
Choose a window seat on the right side behind the wing for the best unobstructed photos of the Caribbean islands. This side avoids the direct morning sun glare on southbound flights. Watch closely about 3.5 hours into the flight for the vivid color changes in the water as you pass over the Bahamian cays. On arrival, the right side usually provides the iconic view of Aruba's turquoise western coastline.
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Delaware Bay
Expansive views of the mouth of the Delaware River meeting the Atlantic Ocean shortly after takeoff.
Atlantic Sunrise
On morning departures, the left side provides a front-row seat to the sun rising over the open ocean horizon.
Turks and Caicos
Distal views of the Caicos Bank's bright blue waters depending on the specific oceanic track taken.
Aruba East Coast
A view of the rugged, wave-battered windward coast of Aruba during the final turn for landing.
Sit on the left for morning flights if you prefer watching the sunrise over the Atlantic, but be prepared for significant glare. This side is generally quieter visually as much of the mid-flight is over deep open water. During the final approach into AUA, you may catch a glimpse of the Arikok National Park's desert-like terrain.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for ArubaDistance: 3,086 km (1,918 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 38 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: AUA (12.5014, -70.015198)
Route Type: International
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