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PHL → TYS
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to McGhee Tyson Airport (Knoxville)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers spectacular views of the Appalachian chain, including the Shenandoah Valley and the majestic approach toward the Great Smoky Mountains.
Search flights from PHL to TYS
Philadelphia Skyline
Excellent views of Center City and the South Philadelphia sports complex immediately after takeoff.
Susquehanna River
Watch for the wide, island-dotted river as you cross the Pennsylvania-Maryland border region.
Shenandoah National Park
Follow the lush green ridge of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the famous Skyline Drive.
Great Smoky Mountains
As you descend into Knoxville, the peaks of the Smokies rise to the south, often shrouded in their signature blue mist.
TVA Reservoirs
Spot the intricate network of the Tennessee Valley Authority lakes and dams during the final approach.
Sit on the left for the best morning light on the mountains without glare. For the most dramatic view of the Smokies, choose a seat behind the wing to see the high peaks during the descent into TYS. Autumn flights (October) provide stunning fall foliage colors across the ridges.
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Delaware River Waterfront
Views of the industrial ports and the Commodore Barry Bridge shortly after departure.
DMV Region
Distant views of the northern Virginia suburbs and the rolling hills of the Piedmont region.
Shenandoah Valley
Bird's-eye view of the fertile valley floor and the patchwork of farms between mountain ridges.
Dulles Corridor
Potential distant views of the Northern Virginia tech corridor and aerospace infrastructure.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to avoid the direct southern sun. You will see more of the agricultural heart of Virginia and East Tennessee. During the approach to TYS, look for the winding Tennessee River and the Knoxville downtown skyline in the distance.
Book Hotels in KnoxvilleDistance: 891 km (554 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: TYS (35.81100082, -83.99400329999999)
Route Type: Domestic
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