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PHL → SDF
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to Louisville International Standiford Field (Louisville)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior perspectives of major urban centers including Harrisburg and Pittsburgh, along with the most scenic stretches of the winding Ohio River as you approach Kentucky.
Search flights from PHL to SDF
Harrisburg & Susquehanna
The Pennsylvania State Capitol and the wide, island-filled Susquehanna River are visible early in the flight.
Pittsburgh Metro Area
Look north to see the confluence of the Three Rivers and the dense urban core of the Steel City.
The Ohio River
Follow the massive meanders of the Ohio River which serves as the border between West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky.
Cincinnati Skyline
Depending on the specific flight corridor, the skyscrapers and stadiums of Cincinnati may appear on the horizon.
Downtown Louisville
Enjoy a prime view of the Louisville skyline and the historic bridges crossing the Ohio River during the final approach.
The right side is generally better for photography as it faces north, avoiding direct sun glare throughout the day. For the best view of the Louisville skyline, hope for a western approach into SDF. If the flight path stays north, you will have an excellent bird's-eye view of the industrial hubs along the Ohio River Valley.
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Lancaster Farmlands
View the distinct, orderly patchwork patterns of Pennsylvania Dutch Country shortly after takeoff.
Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians
Cross the dramatic linear ridges of the Appalachian Mountains through southern Pennsylvania.
Monongahela Forest
Fly over the dense, rugged wilderness of the West Virginia highlands and the Allegheny Plateau.
Bluegrass Region
Observe the rolling horse pastures and limestone-rich geography of central Kentucky during the descent.
Southern Louisville
Catch views of the sprawling Churchill Downs area and the southern residential districts before landing.
Sit on the left for softer lighting during morning flights, as the sun will be behind the aircraft or to the south. Keep a lookout for the geometric patterns of traditional farms in Lancaster. During autumn, the hardwood forests of West Virginia provide a spectacular tapestry of color from mid-October to early November.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 925 km (575 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 33 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: SDF (38.1744, -85.736)
Route Type: Domestic
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