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PHL → CVG
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International Airport (Cincinnati)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers superior urban and landmark views, including a potential sweep of the Philadelphia skyline upon departure and a dramatic view of downtown Cincinnati and the Ohio River during the standard approach into CVG.
Philadelphia Skyline
Excellent views of Center City skyscrapers and the Schuylkill River immediately following a westbound departure.
Lancaster Farmland
The famous, colorful patchwork quilts of Pennsylvania Dutch country agricultural fields.
Pittsburgh Metro Area
Distant but clear views of the Pittsburgh skyline and the Three Rivers confluence to the north.
Cincinnati Downtown
A prime view of the 'Queen City' skyline and its iconic bridges over the Ohio River during the final descent.
The right side is highly recommended for late afternoon or sunset flights, as the golden hour light reflects beautifully off the Ohio River and Cincinnati's glass buildings. To guarantee a view of the Cincinnati skyline, check the wind direction; a north-to-south landing often puts the city right outside your window.
Susquehanna River Crossing
A wide and impressive crossing of the river just west of the Philadelphia metropolitan area.
Appalachian Ridges
Striking views of the geometric ridge-and-valley province in southern Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia.
Monongahela National Forest
Expansive views of the dense, rolling green forests and deep valleys of the West Virginia wilderness.
Kentucky River Border
Aerial views of the winding Ohio River marking the boundary between the Midwest and the South.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the sun. This side provides a better view of the more rugged, mountainous terrain of West Virginia. If the flight path dips slightly south, you may see the northern fringes of the Shenandoah Valley.
Distance: 814 km (506 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: CVG (39.0488014221, -84.6678009033)
Route Type: Domestic
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