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BWI → ORF
Which side of the plane to sit from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (Baltimore) to Norfolk International Airport (Norfolk)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an incredible sequence of landmarks including the historic city of Annapolis, the expansive river estuaries of Virginia, and a world-class view of the massive aircraft carriers at Naval Station Norfolk upon arrival.
Search flights from BWI to ORF
Annapolis & US Naval Academy
The historic Maryland state capital and the iconic domed chapel of the Naval Academy visible shortly after takeoff.
NAS Patuxent River
A major naval aviation testing facility located where the Patuxent River meets the Chesapeake Bay.
The Historic Triangle
Aerial views of the York River and the colonial sites of Yorktown, Jamestown, and nearby Williamsburg.
Naval Station Norfolk
An unparalleled view of the world's largest naval base, often featuring several docked aircraft carriers and destroyers.
Downtown Norfolk Skyline
The urban core of the Hampton Roads area including the Elizabeth River waterfront during the final approach.
Choose the right side for the most iconic man-made landmarks. Keep your window shade up from the moment of takeoff to capture Annapolis. During the final 10 minutes of flight, look closely for the gray hulls of the Atlantic Fleet at the Norfolk Naval Base; it is one of the most unique sights in American commercial aviation.
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Chesapeake Bay Bridge
A stunning aerial perspective of the 4.3-mile long twin spans connecting Sandy Point to Kent Island.
Eastern Shore Wetlands
The intricate, fractal-like patterns of the marshes and tidal creeks along the Maryland and Virginia peninsula.
Smith & Tangier Islands
Remote, historic watermen communities situated in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay.
Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
The engineering marvel consisting of 17 miles of bridges and tunnels connecting the Delmarva Peninsula to Virginia Beach.
Atlantic Ocean Horizon
Expansive views of the open ocean meeting the mouth of the bay as you descend into the Norfolk area.
The left side is best for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun which sits to the east. It is the preferred side for capturing the natural beauty of the bay's islands. Watch for the 'Blue Herons' and other coastal birds if you are at a lower altitude during the initial climb or final descent.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 257 km (160 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 26 min
Departure: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)
Arrival: ORF (36.89459991455078, -76.20120239257812)
Route Type: Domestic
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