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BDL → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Bradley International Airport (Windsor Locks) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a premier view of the Northeast Corridor's major metropolitan centers, including an unparalleled perspective of the Manhattan skyline, Philadelphia, and Baltimore.
Manhattan Skyline
Often the highlight of the trip, providing a side-on view of the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Freedom Tower.
Hudson River
Follow the silver ribbon of the Hudson as it flows past the Palisades and into New York Harbor.
Philadelphia
View the dense urban grid of Center City Philadelphia and the winding Schuylkill River.
Baltimore City
A close-up view of the Inner Harbor, Camden Yards, and the downtown Baltimore skyscrapers.
Potomac River
As the plane turns toward Dulles, the Potomac River marks the boundary between Maryland and Virginia.
Virginia Piedmont
The lush, rolling hills and horse farms of Northern Virginia during the final moments before touchdown.
The right side is the 'city side' for this route. Sit here for the best chance to see NYC; the plane often flies directly over or just west of Manhattan. For late afternoon flights, be aware of sun glare, but the golden hour lighting on the city skylines is spectacular. Ensure you have your camera ready within 15-20 minutes of takeoff from BDL.
Long Island Sound
Expansive views of the Connecticut coastline and the northern shores of Long Island shortly after departure.
Jersey Shore
A clear view of the Atlantic coastline and the barrier islands of New Jersey during the mid-flight cruise.
Delaware Bay
The wide mouth of the Delaware Bay where it meets the Atlantic Ocean, often visible south of Philadelphia.
Chesapeake Bay
Dramatic views of the Eastern Shore and the intricate waterways of the upper Chesapeake Bay on descent.
Baltimore Harbor
Aerial perspective of the Port of Baltimore and the Key Bridge ruins area during the final approach phase.
Choose the left side for morning flights to see the sunrise over the Atlantic. It is also the better side for spotting the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge if the flight path tracks slightly inland over New Jersey. Keep a lookout for the sprawling suburban landscapes of Maryland's Eastern Shore.
Distance: 523 km (325 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 52 min
Departure: BDL (41.9388999939, -72.68319702149999)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: Domestic
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