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SDF destination photo
PHL destination photo

SDFPHL

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The Left Side is superior for this route as it offers a more direct view of the Louisville skyline upon departure and the iconic Philadelphia Center City skyline on the final approach into PHL.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🏙️

Louisville Skyline

Clear views of downtown Louisville and the Ohio River bridges shortly after takeoff from SDF.

⛰️

Allegheny Plateau

The rugged, forested terrain of the Appalachian Mountains stretching across West Virginia.

🌊

Susquehanna River

Crossing the wide, scenic river near the Harrisburg area as you enter eastern Pennsylvania.

🚜

Lancaster Farmlands

Beautiful geometric patchwork patterns of the Pennsylvania Dutch Country agriculture.

🏢

Philadelphia Skyline

The most dramatic view of Center City's skyscrapers during the descent into PHL when landing west.

Book a window seat on the left for the best approach views. If the airport is landing toward the west (Runway 27), you will pass directly north of Center City. Aim for a morning flight to have the sun at your back for better photography of the Appalachians and the city.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🛶

Ohio River Bend

Aerial perspective of the river's path through the rolling hills of north-central Kentucky.

🏔️

Appalachian Ridges

Observation of the unique 'ridge and valley' geological formations of the central Appalachians.

⚓

Northern Chesapeake

Distant views of the upper Chesapeake Bay and the Delaware state line during descent.

🌉

Delaware River Bridges

Views of the Commodore Barry and Delaware Memorial Bridges connecting PA, DE, and NJ.

🏟️

South Philly Stadiums

Direct views of Lincoln Financial Field, Citizens Bank Park, and Wells Fargo Center just before touchdown.

The right side is ideal if you enjoy seeing large-scale infrastructure and industrial waterways. You will get a great look at the shipping traffic on the Delaware River and the South Philadelphia sports complex. This side is also better for sunset views on late afternoon flights heading east.

Top Activities in Philadelphia
Route Information

Distance: 925 km (575 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 33 min

Departure: SDF (38.1744, -85.736)

Arrival: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)

Route Type: Domestic

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