Loading map...
PHL → TLV
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to Ben Gurion International Airport (Tel-aviv)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the iconic approach into Tel Aviv, featuring the Mediterranean coastline and the historic skyline of Jaffa, along with better views of Southern European islands during the transcontinental crossing.
Balearic Islands
If the flight follows a southern European corridor, look for the beautiful coastlines of Mallorca and Menorca in the Mediterranean.
Mount Etna and Sicily
Clear days often provide a spectacular view of the active volcanic peaks and rugged terrain of Italy's largest island.
Greek Archipelago
The deep blue waters of the Ionian and Aegean Seas are dotted with white-washed island clusters visible from high altitude.
Tel Aviv Waterfront
The quintessential view of the trip: the white city's skyscrapers, the Mediterranean beaches, and the ancient stone port of Jaffa on final approach.
The right side is essential for the arrival; ask for a seat behind the wing to ensure your view of the Tel Aviv shoreline is not obstructed. Since this is an eastbound long-haul, expect the sun to rise rapidly on this side of the aircraft, so have your sunglasses ready for the morning descent.
Jersey Shore and NYC
Shortly after takeoff from PHL, you can see the dense urban sprawl of the New Jersey coastline and the distant Manhattan skyline.
Cape Cod Peninsula
As the flight heads northeast before crossing the Atlantic, the distinct hooked shape of Massachusetts' coast is often visible.
The Swiss and French Alps
On more northerly flight paths, the majestic snow-capped peaks of Central Europe provide a stunning backdrop mid-flight.
Haifa Bay
During the descent into Israel, the northern port of Haifa and the slopes of Mount Carmel are visible before the plane turns south.
Sit on the left if you are taking a night flight and hope to catch the Aurora Borealis over the North Atlantic. Keep your window shade down during the middle of the flight to avoid the harsh glare of the morning sun as you fly east into the sunrise.
Distance: 9,268 km (5,759 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 54 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: TLV (32.011398315429695, 34.88669967651367)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.