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STL destination photo
PHL destination photo

STLPHL

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the most dramatic views of the Appalachian ridges in central Pennsylvania and is typically the superior choice for viewing the Philadelphia skyline during the final approach into PHL.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Mississippi-Missouri Confluence

Shortly after takeoff from STL, look for the massive junction where the Missouri River flows into the Mississippi north of the city.

🏙️

Indianapolis Skyline

As you cruise over Indiana, the city center and Lucas Oil Stadium are often visible to the north.

⛰️

Appalachian Ridges

Dramatic views of the long, parallel sandstone ridges of the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians in central Pennsylvania.

🏞️

Susquehanna River

A view of one of the oldest river systems in the world as it winds past the Pennsylvania state capital, Harrisburg.

🌆

Philadelphia Skyline

On the standard descent into PHL, this side offers a spectacular view of the Center City skyscrapers and the Schuylkill River.

Sit on the left for the best chance of seeing the Philly skyline during landing. For morning flights, this side faces north, minimizing sun glare. If landing on Runway 27R, the view of the city is particularly close and impressive.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏹

Gateway Arch

Depending on the departure path, you can catch a glimpse of the iconic monument and downtown St. Louis looking south.

🛤️

Ohio River Valley

View the winding path of the Ohio River as it forms the border between Ohio and West Virginia.

🌄

Allegheny Plateau

Dense forest cover and rugged terrain of the southern Allegheny Mountains are visible during the middle segment of the flight.

🚜

Lancaster Farmland

The beautiful, geometric patchwork of the Pennsylvania Dutch country's highly productive agricultural lands.

🚢

Delaware River Ports

As the plane lines up for landing, see the massive cargo ships and industrial infrastructure of the Delaware River waterfront.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. It provides a better look at the industrial heart of the Delaware Valley. If departing to the east from STL, this side often gets a brief but clear view of the Gateway Arch.

Top Activities in Philadelphia
Route Information

Distance: 1,306 km (812 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 44 min

Departure: STL (38.748697, -90.370003)

Arrival: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)

Route Type: Domestic

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