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IAD → AUS
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Austin Bergstrom International Airport (Austin)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most consistent views of the Appalachian ridges after takeoff and provides the best angle for the Austin skyline during the typical approach into Bergstrom.
Shenandoah National Park
Dramatic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the rolling ridges of the Appalachians shortly after departure from Dulles.
Kentucky Bluegrass
Deep green landscapes and expansive horse farms visible as the flight crosses over the Lexington region.
Nashville Basin
Aerial views of the Cumberland River and the dense urban core of Music City as you traverse middle Tennessee.
Hot Springs National Park
The unique, densely forested mountain formations surrounding the historic thermal springs in central Arkansas.
Downtown Austin
On a standard arrival from the north, this side offers a spectacular view of the Frost Bank Tower and the Texas State Capitol.
Book a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion over the mountains. Morning flights provide the best lighting for the Appalachians, while evening flights offer a beautiful sunset view of the Austin skyline as you bank for landing. Keep an eye out for the distinctive 'U' shape of the Tennessee River.
Potomac River
A clear view of the winding Potomac and the verdant countryside of Northern Virginia immediately after takeoff.
Ohio River Valley
Observation of major river traffic and industrial hubs along the border between Kentucky and Indiana.
Mississippi River
A massive geographical milestone, crossing the wide river near Memphis with views of the floodplains and bridges.
Ozark Plateau
The rugged and heavily forested southern edge of the Ozarks provides a textured landscape across northern Arkansas.
Lake Travis
The sprawling blue waters and limestone cliffs of the Texas Hill Country reservoirs visible during the final descent.
The right side is ideal for spotting the scale of the Mississippi River crossing. Be aware that on afternoon flights, this side will face the direct sun for the majority of the journey, which can make the cabin hot and the glare intense. Use a polarized lens for photos of the water features in Texas.
Distance: 2,084 km (1,295 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 47 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: AUS (30.194499969482425, -97.6698989868164)
Route Type: Domestic
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