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PHX → PIT
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to Pittsburgh International Airport (Pittsburgh)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the dramatic transition from the Arizona desert to the Colorado Plateau, along with a high probability of seeing the Pittsburgh skyline during the descent.
Mogollon Rim
Stunning views of the massive geological fault line and the transition to the high-altitude ponderosa pine forests.
Southern Rockies
Glances of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the snow-capped peaks of northern New Mexico and southern Colorado.
Great Plains Mosaic
Vibrant geometric patterns of agricultural fields across Kansas and Missouri, particularly striking during the 'golden hour'.
Mississippi River
A massive crossing of the primary river system of North America, typically near the St. Louis area.
The Golden Triangle
A potential view of downtown Pittsburgh where the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers meet to form the Ohio River.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the southern sun. During descent into PIT, keep your camera ready as the plane often banks north of the city, providing a panoramic view of the Three Rivers. In winter, look for the stark contrast of snow-dusted ridges in the Appalachian mountains.
Superstition Mountains
Jagged volcanic peaks and rugged wilderness located just east of the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Gila National Forest
Expansive views of New Mexico's mountainous wilderness and deep canyon systems.
Gateway Arch
If the flight path stays south, you may spot the iconic silver curve of the St. Louis Arch in the distance.
Rust Belt Industry
The winding Ohio River Valley featuring historic industrial sites and river barges heading toward Pittsburgh.
North Shore Stadiums
Close-up views of Acrisure Stadium and PNC Park depending on the runway configuration and landing direction.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to capture the warm desert light over Arizona. Watch for the 'Tonto National Forest' reservoirs early in the flight. Note that southern sun can make this side quite warm during the summer months, so keep the window shade partially down until you reach cruising altitude.
Distance: 2,913 km (1,810 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 53 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: PIT (40.49150085, -80.23290253)
Route Type: Domestic
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