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PHL → FRA
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to Frankfurt am Main Airport (Frankfurt)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this transatlantic route, offering views of the Canadian Maritimes, a higher probability of spotting the Aurora Borealis during the night crossing, and scenic entries over the UK and the Low Countries.
East Coast Urban Corridor
Distant views of the NYC skyline and the glowing lights of the Long Island Sound shortly after departure.
Canadian Maritimes
The rugged, rocky coastlines of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland are often visible before heading out over the open ocean.
Aurora Borealis
On nighttime flights during winter months, the northern-facing windows offer the best chance to see the Northern Lights over the Atlantic.
Southern England
First landfall often provides views of the green patchwork fields of Cornwall or the southern English coastline.
The Low Countries
Aerial views of the intricate canal systems, polders, and massive wind farms across the Netherlands and Belgium.
European Airspace
Dense air traffic over Europe often allows for spotting other long-haul aircraft contrails against the morning sky.
For the best experience, choose a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. On this overnight route, the sun will rise on the right (south) side, making the left side better for sleeping without direct glare while still capturing the soft morning light over Europe. If flying between October and March, keep your window shade open and eyes peeled for the Aurora Borealis during the 3-4 hours of oceanic crossing.
Jersey Shore
Immediately after takeoff, enjoy a bird's eye view of the New Jersey coastline and the Atlantic beaches.
Atlantic Shipping Lanes
Watch for the wakes of massive container ships and tankers traversing the North Atlantic trade routes.
Northern France
Views of the geometric patterns of French farmland and the historic Somme region during the descent.
Rhine River Valley
Winding river bends and historic hilltop castles as the flight enters German airspace toward Frankfurt.
Frankfurt Skyline
On many approach patterns, the right side gets a stunning view of the 'Mainhattan' skyscrapers and the Main River.
The right side faces south, meaning you will face direct sunlight during the sunrise and morning arrival in Germany; keep your shades down if you plan to sleep. However, the right side is often better for the final approach into FRA, as the airport's southern arrival routes frequently loop around the city center, providing a panoramic view of the financial district.
Distance: 6,339 km (3,939 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 27 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)
Route Type: International
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