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SFO → PHL
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more iconic sequence of landmarks, including potential views of the Golden Gate Bridge upon departure, the deep blue of Lake Tahoe, the vast Great Salt Lake, and a spectacular approach into Philadelphia featuring the city skyline.
Golden Gate & Marin
After departing SFO and banking east, the left side often captures the Golden Gate Bridge and the rugged coastline of the Marin Headlands.
Lake Tahoe & Sierras
Clear views of the alpine blue water of Lake Tahoe and the granite peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains shortly after takeoff.
Great Salt Lake
A stunning look at the salt flats and the distinct turquoise and pink hues of Utah's Great Salt Lake.
Chicago & Lake Michigan
On more northerly flight paths, the Chicago skyline and the vast blue expanse of Lake Michigan are visible mid-flight.
Philadelphia Center City
During the final approach into PHL, passengers on the left side are often treated to a direct view of the Center City skyscrapers.
Sit on the left to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun on this eastbound transcontinental route. This side is superior for photography of the Great Salt Lake and the PHL skyline approach. For the best views of Lake Tahoe, ensure you are in a window seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion.
San Francisco Peninsula
Excellent views of the SFO airport, the Silicon Valley corridor, and the San Francisco city grid during the initial climb.
Yosemite National Park
On more southerly routings, look for the iconic granite domes and valleys of the High Sierra and Yosemite.
Colorado Rockies
Breathtaking views of the snow-capped Front Range and the high-altitude peaks of the Rocky Mountains.
The Heartland
The intricate geometric patterns of center-pivot irrigation circles across the Great Plains of Kansas and Nebraska.
Delaware River
A low-altitude view of the industrial ports and cargo ships along the Delaware River just before touchdown at PHL.
The right side is ideal for capturing the San Francisco city skyline immediately after takeoff if the plane departs towards the north. However, be prepared for direct sunlight for most of the flight, which can make the cabin warmer. Use a polarizing filter on your camera to cut through the haze over the Midwest plains.
Distance: 4,048 km (2,515 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 46 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Route Type: Domestic
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