Loading map...
PHL → ORF
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to Norfolk International Airport (Norfolk)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is superior for its continuous views of the Atlantic coastline, including the Delaware Bay, Maryland's barrier islands, and the vast Atlantic horizon.
Search flights from PHL to ORF
Delaware Bay Crossing
A wide expanse where the Delaware River empties into the Atlantic, offering deep blue water views.
Rehoboth and Dewey Beaches
Clear views of Delaware's popular summer resort towns and sandy coastlines.
Ocean City Skyline
The dense high-rise hotels of Ocean City, Maryland, are visible along the narrow barrier island.
Assateague Island
A long, undeveloped stretch of beach and marshland known for its wild pony population.
Wallops Flight Facility
NASA's rocket launch site on the Virginia coast is often visible during the descent.
Sit on the left for morning flights to witness the sunrise over the Atlantic. This side provides a better perspective of the coastline's erosion patterns and the distinct 'hook' of Cape Henlopen. Keep an eye out for cargo ships entering the Delaware Bay.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesPhiladelphia Skyline
A dramatic view of Center City skyscrapers immediately following takeoff from PHL.
Port of Wilmington
Industrial views of the busy Delaware River shipping terminals and bridges.
Chesapeake Bay
The flight tracks the eastern shore of this massive estuary, showing intricate river inlets.
Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
On final approach, you can see this engineering marvel connecting the peninsula to Virginia Beach.
Naval Station Norfolk
The world's largest naval base is visible, often featuring docked aircraft carriers and destroyers.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be behind you, reducing glare. It offers the best views of the industrial Delaware River and the massive naval fleet in Hampton Roads during the final minutes of flight. Look for the distinct green marshes of the Eastern Shore.
Book Hotels in NorfolkDistance: 341 km (212 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 34 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: ORF (36.89459991455078, -76.20120239257812)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.