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PHX → BWI
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (Baltimore)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side (facing North) is generally preferred for this route as it offers views of the vibrant Painted Desert, the rugged southern edges of the Rockies, and a better angle for spotting the St. Louis Gateway Arch.
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Mogollon Rim
The dramatic 2,000-foot escarpment in central Arizona marks the edge of the Colorado Plateau.
Painted Desert
Vibrant, multi-colored badlands stretching across Northern Arizona offer a stunning geometric palette.
Southern Rockies
Snow-capped peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in Northern New Mexico and Southern Colorado.
St. Louis Gateway Arch
On many flight paths, the 'Gateway to the West' is visible on the horizon as you cross the Mississippi River.
Appalachian Ridgelines
The distinctive parallel ridges of the folded mountains in West Virginia and Western Maryland.
Sit on the left side to avoid the harsh southern sun glare during midday flights. For the best views of the Painted Desert, look out approximately 30-45 minutes after takeoff from PHX. In winter, this side offers the best views of snow coverage in the higher altitudes of the Midwest.
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Superstition Mountains
Rugged, volcanic peaks located just east of the Phoenix metro area visible immediately after takeoff.
Ozark National Forest
A vast expanse of lush, rolling green hills and dense forest canopy through Missouri and Arkansas.
Mississippi River
The massive, winding artery of the United States serves as a major geographical landmark mid-flight.
Ohio River Valley
The wide river valley marking the border between the Midwest and the Upland South.
Chesapeake Bay
On the final approach into BWI, you can often see the northern reaches of the bay and the Port of Baltimore.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to catch the sunset, though glare can be intense. During the descent into Baltimore, this side often provides a great perspective of the suburban Maryland landscape and the Patapsco River. Use the Mississippi River as your halfway marker.
Book Hotels in BaltimoreDistance: 3,210 km (1,995 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 47 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)
Route Type: Domestic
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