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GCM destination photo
IAD destination photo

GCM β†’ IAD

Our Recommendation
8.9

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers breathtaking aerial views of the vivid turquoise Bahama banks and the iconic barrier islands of the US East Coast.

Right Side Highlights
8.9
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North Sound

A perfect overhead view of Grand Cayman's North Sound, including the white sand of Stingray City.

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Great Bahama Bank

Spectacular swirling sand patterns and neon-blue water depth changes near Andros and Bimini.

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The Gulf Stream

The sharp contrast between the deep cobalt blue of the Atlantic current and the lighter shelf waters.

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The Outer Banks

The narrow ribbon of North Carolina's barrier islands, including Cape Hatteras and the Wright Brothers' territory.

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Chesapeake Bay

Superb views of the Bay Bridge-Tunnel and the massive naval presence around Norfolk during the descent.

The right side is the clear winner for ocean colors. Choose a seat forward of the wing to get unobstructed photos of the Bahamas' reefs. For afternoon flights, the sun will be behind you, making the turquoise water colors pop. Keep an eye out for the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, which looks like a giant thread across the water.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
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Seven Mile Beach

Visible immediately after takeoff if the plane departs to the west or performs a banked turn over the Caribbean Sea.

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Western Cuba

High-altitude views of the Sierra de los Γ“rganos mountains and the rugged coastline near Havana.

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South Florida Coast

Distance views of the Miami skyline and the vast green expanse of the Everglades National Park.

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Charleston Harbor

The distinctive Ravenel Bridge and the historic battery are often visible during the cruise over South Carolina.

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Northern Virginia

During descent, look for the rolling hills of the Piedmont and the outer suburbs of the DC metro area.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is ideal for spotting the transition from the Caribbean tropics to the American South. On final approach to IAD, you may catch a glimpse of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the far distance.

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Route Information

Distance: 2,217 km (1,378 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 57 min

Departure: GCM (19.2928009033, -81.3576965332)

Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)

Route Type: International

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