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PHL → ZRH
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to Zürich Airport (Zurich)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior for this transatlantic route, offering an excellent view of the Philadelphia skyline upon departure, the rugged coastlines of the Canadian Maritimes, and the panoramic majesty of the Swiss Alps during the morning arrival into Zurich.
Philadelphia Skyline
Immediately after takeoff from PHL, the right side often catches a brilliant view of Center City's skyscrapers and the Schuylkill River.
Canadian Maritimes
Excellent views of the rocky coasts of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland before the flight heads out over the open ocean.
Greenland Icecap
On more northern Great Circle routes, you can see the jagged glaciers and ice-filled fjords of Southern Greenland's coast.
Lake Constance
Just before landing, look for the massive Bodensee (Lake Constance) where Switzerland, Germany, and Austria meet.
The Swiss Alps
During the descent into Zurich, the right side offers a breathtaking panoramic vista of the snow-capped peaks to the south.
The right side is the winner for scenery. Ensure your window is clear for takeoff to see the PHL skyline. On arrival (usually between 6:00 AM and 10:00 AM), the morning sun will illuminate the Swiss Alps to the south, providing spectacular photo opportunities. If the flight path takes you over Newfoundland during twilight, the coastal geometry is exceptionally beautiful from this side.
New York City Coastline
Depending on the specific departure corridor, you may see the distant lights of Manhattan and the sprawling coastline of Long Island.
North Atlantic Crossing
A vast expanse of deep blue ocean, which can be particularly striking during the transition from sunset to night.
Jura Mountains
As you enter Swiss airspace from the northwest, you will fly over the forested ridges and limestone plateaus of the Jura range.
Downtown Zurich
On the final approach into ZRH, the left side often provides a clearer view of the city center and the northern tip of Lake Zurich.
The left side is best for seeing the North Atlantic transition and the local geography of the Jura mountains. Since most PHL-ZRH flights are red-eyes, the left side will face north during the crossing, potentially offering a very faint glimpse of the Aurora Borealis during winter months if solar activity is high and the flight path is northerly.
Distance: 6,460 km (4,014 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 36 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)
Route Type: International
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