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IAD → AUA
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Queen Beatrix International Airport (Oranjestad)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic aerial perspectives of the Atlantic coastline and the legendary turquoise coral reefs of the Bahamian archipelago.
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The Outer Banks
View the narrow, sandy barrier islands of North Carolina stretching into the Atlantic.
Kennedy Space Center
Spot the iconic launch pads and the massive Vehicle Assembly Building along the Florida coast.
Great Bahama Bank
Witness the stunning color transition from deep indigo to brilliant turquoise over the shallow sandbanks.
The Exuma Cays
Observe a chain of small, pristine islands and isolated sandbars scattered across the Caribbean Sea.
Aruba's North Shore
During the final descent, see the rugged, desert-like landscape and wave-battered cliffs of the island's windward side.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Bahamas. The contrast between the deep ocean and the shallow banks is most vivid here. For morning flights, this side remains in the shade, which is ideal for photography. As you approach Aruba, you will see the rugged natural side of the island before the plane turns for its final landing.
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Virginia Piedmont
Rolling hills and forest patches of the American South during the initial climb from Dulles.
The Everglades
Look down at the vast, shimmering wetlands of Southern Florida as you transition toward the sea.
Cuban Coastline
Glimpse the lush green mountains and northern urban centers of central Cuba from high altitude.
Oranjestad Harbor
Watch for large cruise ships docked at the colorful capital city as the plane descends.
Aruba Resort Strip
The 'money shot' of the island, featuring the white sands of Eagle and Palm Beach just before touchdown.
The right side is essential for seeing Aruba's famous white-sand hotel strip and turquoise swimming waters upon arrival. On afternoon flights, this side will face the sun, so expect some glare but potentially a spectacular Caribbean sunset if landing late. It is the better side for urban landmarks like Miami or Havana depending on the specific GPS track.
Book Hotels in OranjestadDistance: 3,031 km (1,883 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 34 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: AUA (12.5014, -70.015198)
Route Type: International
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