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HNL → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Daniel K Inouye International Airport (Honolulu) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer spectacular views, the Right Side (Starboard) is the clear winner for its iconic departure view of Diamond Head and Waikiki, followed by prime views of the Southern Rockies and the Shenandoah Valley on approach.
Diamond Head
The most famous volcanic crater in Hawaii is visible shortly after lifting off from HNL.
Waikiki Skyline
A stunning view of the high-rise hotels and turquoise waters along the southern shore of Oahu.
Sierra Nevada
The high peaks of California, including potential glimpses of the Yosemite valley area.
Southern Rockies
Dramatic red rock formations and the high desert plateaus of the Colorado/Utah border.
Mississippi River
The massive scale of America's primary waterway as it carves through the central plains.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The beautiful, hazy blue ridges of the Appalachian chain just before descending into Virginia.
Choose the Right side for the most iconic 'Hawaii' photo opportunity right after takeoff. Because this is a west-to-east flight, the sun will be on the right side for much of the day; keep your window shade partially closed if it gets too warm. For the best views of the Appalachian Mountains, keep a lookout about 30-40 minutes before landing.
Pearl Harbor
Immediately after takeoff, view the historic naval base, the USS Arizona Memorial, and Ford Island.
San Francisco Bay
If the flight path takes a northern landfall, you may see the Golden Gate Bridge and the city skyline.
Great Salt Lake
The shimmering white and turquoise expanse of the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere.
Grand Teton Range
The jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Wyoming Rockies are often visible on the northern corridor.
Midwestern Tapestry
Perfectly geometric crop circles and grid-patterned farmlands across Nebraska and Iowa.
Potomac River
Winding views of the river and the Northern Virginia landscape during the final approach into Dulles.
The Left side is ideal for travelers who want to avoid the direct southern sun glare during the cross-country portion of the trip. It provides better lighting for photography of the Western mountains and the Great Salt Lake. On the final descent into IAD, this side often gets a great look at the rolling hills of Loudoun County.
Distance: 7,740 km (4,809 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 6 min
Departure: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: Domestic
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