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IAD → CRW
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Yeager Airport (Charleston)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning perspective of the Shenandoah Valley's unique geography and the gold-domed West Virginia State Capitol during the approach into Charleston.
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Shenandoah National Park
Aerial views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the rolling ridges that define the Virginia-West Virginia border.
Massanutten Mountain
A distinct, elongated mountain range featuring a unique 'kettle' valley visible shortly after leaving IAD.
WV State Capitol
On final approach, the glittering 23-karat gold leaf dome of the West Virginia State Capitol is visible near the Kanawha River.
Kanawha River
The winding river that carves through the Appalachian Plateau, guiding the flight path into downtown Charleston.
Choose a window seat on the left (Port) side for the best chance to see the Capitol building. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the green mountain ridges. October is peak season for viewing the vibrant fall foliage across the Appalachian range.
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Potomac River Headwaters
The zigzagging path of the upper Potomac River as it cuts through the rocky highlands.
Potomac Highlands
Rugged, high-altitude terrain including some of the highest points in the Allegheny Mountains.
Mountaintop Engineering
Dramatic views of West Virginia's rugged terrain and the engineered plateau where Yeager Airport was constructed.
The right side is excellent for observing the sheer scale of the Potomac Highlands. Since the flight is short and often low-altitude, you can see significant detail in the forest cover. Afternoon flights are better on this side to avoid the harsh morning sun reflecting off the wing.
Book Hotels in CharlestonDistance: 365 km (227 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 37 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: CRW (38.37310028076172, -81.59320068359375)
Route Type: Domestic
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