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IAD destination photo
PHX destination photo

IADPHX

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior progression from the lush Appalachian Mountains through the expansive southern plains, culminating in the dramatic red rock transitions of New Mexico and the approach over the East Valley of Phoenix.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Shenandoah Valley

Dense green forests and the rolling ridges of the Blue Ridge Mountains shortly after takeoff.

🌊

The Ohio River

Massive river bends visible near the border of West Virginia and Kentucky.

🗼

St. Louis Skyline

Distant views of the Gateway Arch and the urban sprawl of Missouri's largest city.

🏜️

Oklahoma Red Beds

Distinctive rust-colored soil and rolling hills across the southern plains.

🌲

Gila National Forest

Rugged mountainous terrain and deep canyons in western New Mexico.

Sit on the left to minimize glare from the sun when flying west in the morning or midday. For sunset flights, the left side captures the 'belt of Venus' and the rising shadow of the Earth. On arrival into PHX, this side usually offers a great view of South Mountain Park and the suburban grid of the East Valley.

Right Side Highlights
8.0
💧

Potomac River

Aerial view of the river and the DMV suburban landscape during the initial climb out of IAD.

🚢

Mississippi River

The broad, meandering waterway that marks the transition into the American West.

🏔️

Sandia Mountains

The dramatic eastern face of the mountains overlooking the Albuquerque basin.

🎨

Painted Desert

Vibrant, multi-colored rock layers visible as the flight enters northern Arizona air space.

🌵

Superstition Mountains

Iconic, jagged peaks that serve as a landmark for the final approach into Sky Harbor.

The right side is the 'sunny side' on this westbound route; keep your window shade partially closed during midday to avoid heat. However, it is the best side for late afternoon flights to witness the golden hour lighting up the desert mesas. Look for Camelback Mountain on your final descent, which often appears prominently on this side.

Top Activities in Phoenix
Route Information

Distance: 3,142 km (1,952 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 42 min

Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)

Arrival: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)

Route Type: Domestic

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