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DEN → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Denver International Airport (Denver) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers a superior perspective of the St. Louis skyline, including the Gateway Arch, followed by a stunning approach over the lush Shenandoah Valley and potential distant views of the Washington D.C. landmarks upon arrival.
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The Front Range
A final look at the snow-capped Rocky Mountains receding behind the aircraft during the climb.
St. Louis Gateway Arch
The iconic silver arch is often clearly visible as the flight path tracks just south of the city.
Ohio River Meanders
Spectacular views of the massive river forming the border between Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio.
Monongahela Forest
Expansive green views of the West Virginia wilderness and deep mountain valleys.
Shenandoah National Park
Aerial views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the scenic Skyline Drive ridge-top road.
D.C. Distance Views
On clear days, the Washington Monument and Capitol Building may be visible on the horizon during the base leg of the approach.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to catch the sunset over the Shenandoah Valley. Keep a close eye out approximately 90-110 minutes into the flight for St. Louis; the Gateway Arch is a tiny but bright silver sliver. During the final 20 minutes, the descent provides an intimate look at the rolling hills of Virginia's horse country.
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Denver Skyline
Excellent views of downtown Denver and the Mile High Stadium shortly after takeoff.
Nebraska Heartland
Geometric patterns of the Great Plains' circular irrigation fields stretching across the horizon.
Mississippi River
A major crossing point near the border of Illinois and Missouri, showing the scale of the waterway.
Industrial Ohio
Dense urban clusters and industrial landscapes of the Midwest as you pass over the Ohio Valley.
Allegheny Ridges
Distinct parallel mountain ridges of the Appalachian chain in Pennsylvania and Maryland.
Potomac River Valley
Scenic views of the winding Potomac River as the aircraft begins its final descent into Dulles.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. Watch for the dramatic change in terrain from the flat plains of the Midwest to the folded mountains of the Appalachians about 45 minutes before landing. In winter, the snow-covered ridges of Pennsylvania provide high-contrast views.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,332 km (1,449 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 7 min
Departure: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: Domestic
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