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PHL β SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Right Side of the Plane
While the left side offers the famous urban landing into San Diego, the right side provides an unparalleled showcase of the American West's greatest natural wonders, including the Grand Canyon and the Rocky Mountains.
Midwest Patchwork
The geometric precision of the Great Plains' agricultural grid creates a colorful quilt-like pattern from 35,000 feet.
Colorado Rockies
The jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Southern Rocky Mountains offer a dramatic transition from the plains to the desert.
Grand Canyon
Often visible on the right, the vast expanse and deep shadows of this world wonder are a flight highlight.
Lake Mead & Hoover Dam
Look for the deep blue waters of the reservoir and the engineering marvel of the dam as you approach the California border.
Mojave Desert
The rugged mountains and dry lake beds of the California desert showcase an alien, barren beauty before the coastal descent.
The right side is the 'Scenic Route' for natural geography. For westbound flights leaving PHL in the morning, this side stays in the shade, providing better lighting for photography. Keep your eyes peeled roughly 45 to 60 minutes before landing for the most spectacular canyon views.
Appalachian Ridges
View the rolling green peaks and dense forests of the Pennsylvania and West Virginia highlands shortly after takeoff.
Mississippi River
Witness the massive scale of America's primary waterway as it carves through the central states.
Painted Desert
The vibrant orange, red, and purple rock layers of the New Mexico and Arizona badlands provide a stunning desert mosaic.
Salton Sea
A massive, shimmering saline lake located in the California desert, appearing as a mirage-like blue expanse.
San Diego Skyline
During the final descent, the left side offers a premier view of the downtown skyscrapers and the busy harbor.
The left side is essential for the famous 'San Diego landing.' You will fly remarkably close to the skyscrapers of downtown. For late afternoon flights, the left side will face south and west, meaning you may experience significant sun glare for the final half of the journey.
Distance: 3,806 km (2,365 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 29 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: Domestic
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