Loading map...

BNA destination photo
IAD destination photo

BNAIAD

Our Recommendation
7.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is preferred for its potential view of the Nashville skyline upon departure and the continuous vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley during the descent into Northern Virginia.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🎸

Nashville Skyline

Capture views of the 'Batman Building' and the Cumberland River immediately following an eastbound takeoff.

🏔️

Blue Ridge Mountains

See the iconic eastern front of the Appalachians, often covered in a characteristic blue haze.

🏘️

Shenandoah Valley

A picturesque patchwork of historic farmlands and limestone-rich valleys between mountain ranges.

⛰️

Massanutten Mountain

Look for the unique, isolated mountain ridge that stands alone in the middle of the Shenandoah Valley.

🍇

Virginia Hunt Country

Enjoy views of rolling hills, equestrian estates, and vineyards during the final approach into Dulles.

The right side offers the best lighting for morning flights as the sun illuminates the mountain faces. Be ready with your camera during the first 5 minutes for Nashville views and the final 15 minutes for the scenic Virginia countryside.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
⛰️

Cumberland Plateau

View the rugged sandstone cliffs and deep gorges of the eastern Highland Rim shortly after departure.

🏔️

Appalachian Ridges

Observe the dramatic linear 'folds' of the Ridge-and-Valley province throughout West Virginia.

🌳

Monongahela Forest

Fly over vast stretches of dense, federally protected wilderness in the heart of the mountains.

🏞️

Potomac River

Visible during northern arrival patterns into IAD, serving as the natural border between Virginia and Maryland.

This side is ideal for passengers interested in the complex geological 'folding' of the Appalachian Mountains. Sit here on afternoon flights to keep the sun behind you for better photography of the West Virginia wilderness.

Top Activities in Washington
Route Information

Distance: 871 km (541 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min

Departure: BNA (36.1245002746582, -86.6781997680664)

Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.