Loading map...
ATL → BWI
Which side of the plane to sit from Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta) to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (Baltimore)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a scenic perspective of the Appalachian mountain chain and the best opportunity to view the landmarks of Washington D.C. during the descent into Baltimore.
Search flights from ATL to BWI
Atlanta Skyline
Clear views of the downtown and Midtown skyscrapers shortly after takeoff from ATL.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Expansive vistas of the rolling blue-hued peaks of the southern Appalachian range.
Shenandoah National Park
Aerial view of the dense forests and the winding Skyline Drive along the ridge tops.
Washington D.C.
Potential sightings of the National Mall, Washington Monument, and the Capitol Building during the arrival phase.
Potomac River
The wide, winding path of the river separating Virginia and Maryland as the aircraft descends.
Opt for the left side on morning flights to keep the sun behind you for better photography. Watch closely during the last 20 minutes of flight for D.C. landmarks, which appear as the plane turns toward the northeast. Winter flights offer better visibility of the mountain topography through the bare trees.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United States
Stone Mountain
The world's largest exposed granite monadnock is a prominent landmark visible minutes after departure.
Lake Lanier
A massive reservoir with intricate shorelines and numerous islands north of the Atlanta metro area.
Richmond, Virginia
The Virginia state capital and its position along the James River fall directly along the flight path.
Chesapeake Bay
Spectacular views of the massive estuary, including the many inlets of the Maryland coastline.
Bay Bridge
The iconic twin spans connecting the Maryland mainland to the Eastern Shore near Annapolis.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or sunset flights to witness the golden hour reflection off the Chesapeake Bay. Keep your camera ready within the first 10 minutes for Stone Mountain. During the final approach, look for the historic sailboat-filled harbor of Annapolis.
Book Hotels in BaltimoreDistance: 928 km (577 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 33 min
Departure: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)
Arrival: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.