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BHM destination photo
BWI destination photo

BHMBWI

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a superior scenic experience, particularly during the descent, offering views of the Virginia Piedmont, the distant Washington D.C. skyline, and the expansive Chesapeake Bay before landing.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Richmond Skyline

The capital of Virginia and the James River are often visible to the east during the mid-portion of the flight.

🏛️

D.C. Landmarks

On clear days during the descent, look north to spot the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol building.

🌊

Chesapeake Bay

The largest estuary in the U.S. provides a stunning backdrop of water and wetlands during the final approach phase.

🛶

Lake Anna

A large, branching reservoir in central Virginia that is easily identifiable from cruising altitude.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be on the opposite side. Keep your camera ready about 15-20 minutes before touchdown to catch the D.C. skyline and the Maryland coastline.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
⛰️

Appalachian Ridge

Visible shortly after takeoff and throughout the cruise, showcasing the distinct linear patterns of the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians.

🌲

Shenandoah Valley

A beautiful patchwork of agricultural lands nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Alleghenies.

💧

Potomac River

Watch for the river winding through the landscape as the aircraft crosses from Virginia into Maryland.

For morning flights, the left side is preferable to avoid direct sunlight and glare. Look out for the George Washington National Forest roughly 45 minutes into the flight for the most rugged mountain views.

Top Activities in Baltimore
Route Information

Distance: 1,097 km (682 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 28 min

Departure: BHM (33.56290054, -86.75350189)

Arrival: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)

Route Type: Domestic

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