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PHL → PDX
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to Portland International Airport (Portland)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers an unparalleled 'volcano tour' during the descent into Portland, featuring spectacular views of Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, and sometimes Mount Rainier, along with better views of the Great Lakes during the initial transcontinental leg.
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Great Lakes Shoreline
Often skims the southern edges of Lake Erie and Lake Michigan, offering deep blue water vistas.
Chicago Vistas
Potential views of the Chicago skyline and O'Hare airport if the flight path tracks north.
Bitterroot Mountains
Breathtaking views of the rugged, snow-capped peaks across Montana and Idaho.
Mount St. Helens
The iconic horseshoe-shaped crater and blast zone are clearly visible from the north side.
Mount Adams
The massive, rounded silhouette of Washington's second-highest peak dominates the horizon.
Columbia River Gorge
The dramatic basalt cliffs and winding river path leading directly into the Portland basin.
The right side is the 'Volcano Side.' For the best experience, fly during the morning to have the sun behind you, illuminating Mount St. Helens and Mount Adams perfectly. During the descent, the plane often follows the Columbia River, providing a front-row seat to the dramatic transition from high desert to lush forest.
Book Hotels in PortlandPhiladelphia Skyline
Clear views of Center City skyscrapers and the sports complex immediately after takeoff.
Mississippi River
A major crossing point near the Quad Cities or St. Louis depending on the specific flight path.
Colorado Rockies
Vistas of the Southern Rocky Mountains and the high desert plateaus of Wyoming and Utah.
Mount Hood
Oregon's highest peak appears massive and close as you descend into the Willamette Valley.
Mount Jefferson
The second highest peak in Oregon is visible to the south during the final approach.
Choose the left side for the most intimate view of Mount Hood during the 'Gorge Arrival' into PDX. On late afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, which can create significant glare; however, it provides the best lighting for photography of the mountains to the south during winter months.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 3,863 km (2,400 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 33 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)
Route Type: Domestic
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