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IAD → DOH
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Hamad International Airport (Doha)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side offers the most dramatic geographic diversity, including potential sightings of the Greenland ice sheet, the rugged Caucasus mountains, and a superior view of the Doha skyline on approach.
Greenland Ice Cap
Massive glaciers and deep fjords are often visible if the great circle route tracks through high latitudes.
Caucasus Mountains
Stunning snow-capped peaks and deep valleys as the flight crosses between the Black and Caspian Seas.
Caspian Sea
The vast expanse of the world's largest inland body of water, showing unique shoreline patterns in Iran.
Zagros Mountains
Incredible geological folds and desert landscapes during the transit over the Iranian plateau.
The Pearl-Qatar
On final approach into DOH, this side typically offers a clear view of the iconic man-made island and West Bay.
For flights departing IAD in the evening, the Left Side is essential for spotting the Aurora Borealis over the North Atlantic during winter months. During the day, it provides the best lighting for photographing the Zagros mountains without sun glare. If the aircraft approaches Hamad International from the north, you will have a front-row seat to Doha's modern skyline.
Chesapeake Bay
A beautiful view of the Maryland and Virginia coastline shortly after takeoff from Dulles.
Western European Cities
Aerial views of London, Brussels, or Frankfurt depending on the specific airway used for the day.
Black Sea Coast
The southern coastline of Turkey and the strategic waters leading toward the Bosphorus.
Mesopotamian Plains
The historic fertile crescent and the winding paths of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in Iraq.
Persian Gulf
Clear views of turquoise waters, offshore oil platforms, and heavy maritime traffic near the Strait of Hormuz.
The Right Side is ideal for capturing the sunset over Europe if the flight is on a mid-day or late-afternoon schedule. It offers a better perspective of the Mesopotamian river systems. When landing at DOH, this side often looks out over the open waters of the Gulf and the industrial port areas, which are beautifully lit at night.
Distance: 11,127 km (6,914 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 13 hrs 5 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: DOH (25.273056, 51.608056)
Route Type: International
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