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PHL → PHX
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the transition from the rolling Midwest to the dramatic geological formations of the Southwest, including views of the Southern Rockies and the Painted Desert during descent.
Ohio River Valley
Winding views of the river as it carves through the industrial and forest heartlands of the Ohio Valley.
Ozark Plateau
Dense forest canopies and deep river valleys of southern Missouri, offering lush green textures from high altitude.
Southern Rockies
Distant but majestic views of snow-capped peaks like Pikes Peak if the flight path stays on a northernly corridor.
Painted Desert
Stunning displays of multi-colored sedimentary layers and badlands as the flight crosses into Northern Arizona.
Superstition Mountains
Rugged, volcanic peaks that serve as a dramatic landmark for the descent into the Salt River Valley.
Tonto National Forest
A vast expanse of saguaro-studded desert and mountain terrain visible during the final 20 minutes of flight.
The right side is the 'scenic side' for desert landscapes. About 45 minutes before landing, look for the color shift in the terrain as you enter Arizona. Be aware that on afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, so keep your window shade down until you reach the more scenic desert regions to keep the cabin cool.
Appalachian Mountains
Visible shortly after departure, showcasing the ancient, rolling ridge-and-valley formations of Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
Mississippi River
A major geographic milestone cutting through the center of the country, often crossed near the Missouri border.
High Plains Grids
Intricate patterns of circular irrigation and vast agricultural fields across Oklahoma and the Texas Panhandle.
Sandia Peak
A prominent mountain range located just east of Albuquerque, marking the entry into the rugged New Mexico landscape.
Tempe & Mesa
Aerial views of the Arizona State University campus and the urban sprawl of the East Valley during the final approach.
Sit on the left for a shaded cabin during afternoon flights, which significantly reduces glare for photography. This side provides excellent views of the southern flight corridor and the distinctive urban layout of Phoenix's southern suburbs during landing.
Distance: 3,333 km (2,071 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 55 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Route Type: Domestic
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