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IAD → GRR
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Gerald R. Ford International Airport (Grand Rapids)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers superior views of the Great Lakes coastline, the dramatic transition from the Appalachian Mountains to the Midwest, and clear sightings of the Cleveland and Detroit metropolitan areas.
Potomac River Meanders
Clear views of the winding Potomac River and the Maryland countryside shortly after departure from IAD.
Cleveland Skyline
As the flight nears Lake Erie, look for the skyscrapers of downtown Cleveland and the iconic Progressive Field.
Lake Erie Coastline
Breathtaking views of the vast blue water and the industrial ports lining the southern shore of the Great Lake.
Detroit & Windsor
Depending on the specific flight corridor, you can often see the Detroit River and the international border cities.
Lake St. Clair
The shimmering turquoise waters of Lake St. Clair are frequently visible north of the Detroit metro area.
Lower Michigan Forests
Dense clusters of white pine and maple forests characteristic of central Michigan appear during the descent.
The right side is the definitive choice for water lovers; the view of Lake Erie is the highlight of the trip. Aim for a morning flight to have the sun behind you, which illuminates the lake and city skylines perfectly for photography.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Aerial views of the rolling ridges and lush forests of the northern Virginia and West Virginia highlands.
Ohio River Valley Plains
The landscape shifts into the distinct geometric patterns of the American Midwest's vast agricultural heartland.
Sunset Horizon
On evening flights, this side provides front-row seats to the sun setting over the western horizon.
Grand Rapids Suburbs
Final approach views of the residential developments and woodland patches south of the GRR airport.
Select the left side for late afternoon or evening flights to enjoy the sunset. This side is also better for observing the dense forest coverage of the Appalachian Plateau before the terrain flattens into Ohio.
Distance: 806 km (501 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: GRR (42.88079834, -85.52279663)
Route Type: Domestic
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