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IAD → LAS
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to McCarran International Airport (Las Vegas)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the clear winner for this route as it typically offers a direct view of the Grand Canyon and provides the iconic aerial perspective of the Las Vegas Strip, Lake Mead, and the Hoover Dam during the descent.
Shenandoah Valley
Lush green ridges of the Appalachian Mountains shortly after departure from Dulles.
Mississippi River
The massive waterway snaking through the central United States near St. Louis.
Grand Canyon South Rim
Unparalleled views of the deepest sections of the canyon approximately 40 minutes before landing.
Hoover Dam & Lake Mead
The brilliant blue of the man-made lake contrasted against the desert red rock during the initial descent.
Las Vegas Strip
On standard westward landing patterns, this side offers a panoramic view of the mega-resorts and the Sphere.
Sit behind the wing for an unobstructed view of the ground. On afternoon flights, the sun will be on the left (South), so keep your window shade down during the mid-flight glare to preserve your vision for the spectacular Grand Canyon and Las Vegas approach. In winter, look for the stark contrast of snow on the high Arizona plateaus.
Colorado Rockies
High-altitude views of the snow-capped peaks of the Continental Divide.
Arches & Canyonlands
The unique red sandstone 'fins' and canyons of Eastern Utah are often visible from the northern flight path.
Valley of Fire
Bright red Aztec sandstone formations in the Mojave Desert visible during the descent into Nevada.
Denver Skyline
Depending on the specific airway, the Mile High City and its airport are often visible to the north.
Great Plains Patchwork
The geometric beauty of circular irrigation fields across Kansas and Eastern Colorado.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be on the opposite side of the aircraft, providing soft, even lighting for photography of the Rocky Mountains. If the flight takes a more northerly route, you may see the Great Salt Lake in the distance. This side is typically quieter for sleeping as it avoids the direct southern sun.
Distance: 3,316 km (2,060 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 54 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: LAS (36.08010101, -115.1520004)
Route Type: Domestic
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