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IAD destination photo
AMS destination photo

IADAMS

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is the preferred choice for this transatlantic route as it offers the potential for Northern Lights sightings over the Atlantic and avoids the intense glare of the sunrise, providing better views of the Canadian coast and the North Sea approach.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🏙️

New England Coast

Aerial views of Boston and the distinctive hook of Cape Cod as the flight tracks northeast along the US coast.

🌊

Canadian Maritimes

Dramatic views of the rugged, rocky coastlines of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland before the ocean crossing.

🌌

Aurora Borealis

During winter months, this north-facing side provides the best chance to spot the Northern Lights during the dark middle hours of the flight.

🚤

North Sea Wind Farms

Vast arrays of offshore wind turbines visible in the turquoise waters of the North Sea during the descent.

🇳🇱

Noord-Holland Dunes

The sandy coastline and organized landscape of the Dutch provinces as the plane aligns for landing at Schiphol.

Sit forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view for potential Aurora photography. This side remains in the shade during the morning arrival, which is better for viewing the intricate Dutch canal systems and agricultural patterns without window glare. Check the Kp-index before flying for Northern Lights probability.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🏖️

Jersey Shore

Views of the Atlantic City skyline and the long stretches of New Jersey beaches during the initial climb.

🌅

Atlantic Sunrise

A front-row seat to a vivid sunrise over the open ocean, typically occurring 4-5 hours into the flight.

🇮🇪

Irish Landfall

The first glimpse of Europe often includes the deep green fields and coastal cliffs of Southern Ireland.

🎡

London & The Channel

Depending on the air traffic corridor, you may see the mouth of the Thames and the busy shipping lanes of the English Channel.

🏗️

Port of Rotterdam

Views of the massive industrial cranes and container ships at one of the world's largest ports during the final approach.

Be prepared for very bright light during the sunrise; a pair of sunglasses is essential if you want to keep the window shade up. If the flight lands on the Polderbaan runway (18R/36L), the right side offers excellent views of the Haarlem area and the classic Dutch countryside.

Top Activities in Amsterdam
Route Information

Distance: 6,207 km (3,857 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 18 min

Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)

Arrival: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)

Route Type: International

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