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GVA destination photo
IAD destination photo

GVAIAD

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers unparalleled views of the Greenland ice sheet and the rugged eastern coastline of North America.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🛶

Lake Geneva

A stunning aerial view of the crescent-shaped lake and the Swiss Alps immediately after takeoff.

🇬🇱

Greenland Ice Sheet

The highlight of the route, featuring massive glaciers, icebergs, and deep fjords along the southern coast.

🇨🇦

Newfoundland Coast

The rugged, rocky shores and deep inlets of eastern Canada as you re-enter North American airspace.

🏙️

New England Corridor

Distant views of Boston and the Massachusetts coastline before heading south toward D.C.

✈️

Dulles Landscape

A clear view of the airport's iconic architecture and runways if the approach comes from the north.

Choose the right side for the best chance to see Greenland; this usually occurs 4-5 hours into the flight. Since the sun is on the left side of the aircraft for this westbound route, the right side provides indirect lighting which is ideal for photography without glare. Keep your camera ready as you cross the Canadian border for beautiful coastal scenery.

Left Side Highlights
6.5
⛰️

Jura Mountains

Rising shortly after takeoff from GVA, these limestone ridges provide a dramatic start to the journey.

🌊

English Channel

Glances of the French and British coastlines as the aircraft moves toward the Atlantic.

🌅

Atlantic Horizon

Consistent views of the sun tracking across the southern sky throughout this westbound flight.

🏙️

Northern Virginia

Views of the sprawling suburbs and the rolling hills of the Piedmont region on descent.

💧

Potomac River

Depending on the arrival pattern, the winding river may be visible as you approach Dulles.

The left side is best for those who enjoy the warmth of the sun and watching the sunset during the latter half of the flight. It offers excellent views of the Jura mountains immediately after departure. During the transatlantic crossing, glare can be significant, so keep the window shade partially down if the sun is direct.

Top Activities in Washington
Route Information

Distance: 6,566 km (4,080 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 43 min

Departure: GVA (46.23809814453125, 6.108950138092041)

Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)

Route Type: International

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