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PHL → RDU
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to Raleigh Durham International Airport (Raleigh-durham)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers spectacular views of the Atlantic coastline, the Delaware Bay, and the massive naval infrastructure around Norfolk and the Chesapeake mouth.
Search flights from PHL to RDU
Delaware Bay
A massive estuary with views of the Cape May-Lewes ferry path shortly after departure.
Delmarva Peninsula
A panoramic view of the wetlands and coastal landscape between the bays.
Norfolk Naval Base
The world's largest naval station with numerous aircraft carriers often visible from altitude.
Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
An incredible 17-mile series of bridges and tunnels spanning the mouth of the bay.
Coastal Estuaries
Intricate waterways and marshes of the North Carolina and Virginia border.
Sit on the left for morning flights to see the sun rising over the Atlantic. The descent into RDU often provides a great view of the coastal plains meeting the Piedmont plateau. Look for the distinct shape of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel near Norfolk.
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Wilmington Skyline
View of Delaware's commercial hub and the Christina River shortly after takeoff.
I-95 Corridor
The dense urban sprawl and highway infrastructure connecting the Mid-Atlantic cities.
Potomac River
Major river crossing as the flight enters Virginia airspace south of D.C.
Richmond
The historic capital of Virginia situated along the rocky banks of the James River.
Piedmont Forests
Dense green canopy and rolling hills typical of the North Carolina interior.
The right side is better for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. You will likely see the urban sprawl of the I-95 corridor. On very clear days, the distant Blue Ridge Mountains may be visible on the western horizon during the latter half of the flight.
Book Hotels in Raleigh-durhamDistance: 542 km (337 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 54 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: RDU (35.877601623535156, -78.7874984741211)
Route Type: Domestic
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