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IAD → FLL
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport (Fort Lauderdale)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior view of the Atlantic coastline, featuring the complex geography of the Chesapeake Bay, the Outer Banks of North Carolina, and the transition to the turquoise waters of the Florida Gold Coast.
Chesapeake Bay
Extensive views of the massive estuary and its intricate network of tributaries shortly after departure from Dulles.
Outer Banks
The iconic thin strip of barrier islands and lighthouses along the North Carolina coast are visible mid-flight.
Intracoastal Waterway
A continuous view of the winding inland channels and luxury marinas that parallel the Atlantic coastline.
Gold Coast Beaches
Sparkling white sands and high-rise condominiums of West Palm Beach and Boca Raton during the descent.
Fort Lauderdale Port
Aerial perspective of Port Everglades, one of the world's busiest cruise ports, just before landing.
Book the left side for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the western sun. Look out for the distinct shape of Cape Hatteras approximately 45 minutes into the flight. This side is especially rewarding during clear winter days when the air is crisp and visibility is high.
Piedmont Plateau
Rolling green hills and dense forest canopy of the Virginia and Carolina inland regions.
Lake Gaston
A large, sprawling reservoir on the border of North Carolina and Virginia providing a stark contrast to the greenery.
Congaree Basin
Views of the vast river floodplains and ancient forests of South Carolina's inland river systems.
Lake Okeechobee
The massive inland 'Big O' lake, appearing like a small sea in central Florida, is visible about 25 minutes before landing.
The Everglades
The endless horizon of the 'River of Grass' wetlands stretching toward the Gulf of Mexico on the final approach.
The right side is the preferred choice for sunset views on afternoon/evening flights. Watch for the massive circular shape of Lake Okeechobee; it is a primary landmark for pilots. If the flight approaches FLL from the west over the glades, you will see the stark line where suburban sprawl meets the protected wetlands.
Distance: 1,453 km (903 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 56 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: FLL (26.072599, -80.152702)
Route Type: Domestic
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