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ZRH → PHL
Which side of the plane to sit from Zürich Airport (Zurich) to Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this transatlantic journey, offering views of the French Jura mountains shortly after takeoff, the rugged southern coastline of Ireland, and a high probability of spotting the New York City skyline in the distance during the descent into Philadelphia.
Jura Mountains
Look out shortly after departure from ZRH to see the distinctive limestone ridges of the Jura range stretching toward the French border.
Irish Coastline
Depending on the North Atlantic Track, the left side often provides views of the cliffs and rugged peninsulas of Southern Ireland or West Cork.
Atlantic Ice Fields
During the crossing, keep an eye out for sea ice and the occasional iceberg as the flight nears the coast of Newfoundland.
New York City
During the descent toward PHL, the left side frequently offers a panoramic view of Manhattan's skyline and the New Jersey coastline.
Delaware River
Final approach often follows the Delaware River, providing views of the bridges and industrial landscapes of the corridor.
This is a daytime westbound flight, so the sun will be on the left (south) for much of the journey; keep your window shade partially closed to avoid glare while searching for the NYC skyline. The approach into PHL often passes just west of New York, making the left side the prime spot for city spotting. Check the flight map for the 'Great Circle' route; if it dips south, the Irish coast is a major highlight.
Black Forest
Immediately after takeoff, the right side may catch glimpses of the dense, dark woods of the German Black Forest to the north.
Greenland Ice Sheet
If the day's flight path takes a northern track, the right side offers spectacular views of Greenland's massive glaciers and fjords.
Gulf of St. Lawrence
Enjoy the vast waters and remote islands as the aircraft enters North American airspace near Quebec or New Brunswick.
New England Wilderness
Vast stretches of forest in Maine and the White Mountains of New Hampshire are visible as the plane moves south toward Pennsylvania.
The right side is the best choice if the flight follows a more northern 'Polar' track, as it provides the only chance to see the Greenland ice cap. Since the sun is on the opposite side of the aircraft, the lighting on the terrain below (especially Greenland or Canada) is often softer and better for photography without the harsh glare found on the left.
Distance: 6,460 km (4,014 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 36 min
Departure: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)
Arrival: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Route Type: International
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