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IAD → CMH
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (Columbus)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers a more expansive view of the Shenandoah Valley and the dramatic, long-running ridges of the Blue Ridge Mountains. On this short westward hop, the southern perspective typically captures the heart of the Appalachian wilderness with better sun positioning for photography during the day.
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Blue Ridge Mountains
Stunning views of the iconic long, parallel ridges of the Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive.
Shenandoah Valley
A patchwork of lush farmland and historic towns nestled between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny mountains.
Monongahela National Forest
Deep green, rugged terrain of the West Virginia highlands, featuring some of the most remote land in the East.
Ohio River Crossing
The major water artery marking the border between the Appalachian foothills and the rolling plains of Ohio.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. During autumn (October), this side provides a spectacular tapestry of fall colors across the Appalachian ridges. Keep your eyes peeled about 15-20 minutes after takeoff for the most defined mountain peaks.
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Potomac River
Excellent views of the winding Potomac River as it carves through the landscape northwest of Dulles.
Harpers Ferry Confluence
If the flight path is slightly north, you can see where the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers meet at this historic gap.
Maryland Panhandle
Bird's-eye views of the narrowest part of Maryland and the suburban-to-rural transition of the region.
Columbus Skyline
Often provides a direct view of the Ohio Statehouse and downtown skyscrapers during the final descent into CMH.
Choose the right side for late afternoon or evening flights to enjoy the sunset without looking directly into it. This side is also superior for viewing the Harpers Ferry area shortly after takeoff if the plane follows the northern departure corridor.
Book Hotels in ColumbusDistance: 481 km (299 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 48 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: CMH (39.998001, -82.891899)
Route Type: Domestic
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