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SWF → PHL
Which side of the plane to sit from Stewart International Airport (Newburgh) to Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the lower Hudson Valley, a distant glimpse of the iconic New York City skyline, and a prime perspective of the Delaware River during the descent into Philadelphia.
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Hudson Highlands
Immediately after takeoff, enjoy views of the dramatic granite peaks and the winding Hudson River south of Newburgh.
NYC Skyline
On clear days, the Manhattan skyline, including the One World Trade Center, is visible on the eastern horizon.
Princeton University
Look for the Gothic architecture and green quads of this Ivy League campus as you traverse central New Jersey.
Delaware River Bridges
As the plane aligns for PHL, the Ben Franklin and Walt Whitman bridges provide a grand entrance to the city.
Port of Philadelphia
A close-up view of the massive cranes and shipping containers along the riverbanks just before touchdown.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the New York City skyline in the distance. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the landscape and skyscrapers without glare. This side is also preferred for the standard landing patterns into PHL runways 27L or 27R, which often follow the river.
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Ramapo Mountains
View the forested ridges of the Appalachian chain stretching across the New York and New Jersey border.
Spruce Run Reservoir
A large, distinct blue body of water surrounded by greenery in Hunterdon County, New Jersey.
Pennsylvania Dutch Country
As you enter PA airspace, the landscape transitions into a patchwork of well-manicured farmlands and rolling hills.
Main Line Suburbs
Observe the historic and affluent residential corridors of the Philadelphia suburbs during the final descent.
The right side is better for viewing the natural terrain and rolling hills of the Delaware Valley. Late afternoon flights provide a beautiful 'golden hour' glow over the Pennsylvania countryside. If the airport is using an unusual approach from the west, this side may catch a glimpse of the Schuylkill River and Fairmount Park.
Book Hotels in PhiladelphiaDistance: 205 km (127 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 21 min
Departure: SWF (41.50410079956055, -74.10479736328125)
Arrival: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Route Type: Domestic
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