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IAD → PIT
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Pittsburgh International Airport (Pittsburgh)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a more dramatic perspective of the Appalachian ridges and is strategically positioned to view the Pittsburgh skyline and the Monongahela River during standard arrival patterns.
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Blue Ridge Mountains
Aerial views of the northern tip of the Shenandoah National Park and the rolling waves of the Blue Ridge.
Seven Springs Resort
The recognizable slopes of the Laurel Highlands' premier ski destination visible in the mountainous terrain.
Youghiogheny River Lake
A vast, winding reservoir that snakes through the mountains near the Pennsylvania-Maryland border.
Pittsburgh Skyline
The 'Golden Triangle' and the iconic yellow bridges of downtown Pittsburgh as the plane aligns for landing.
Monongahela Valley
Views of the historic industrial corridor and active steel mills lining the riverbanks south of the city.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the city skyline. During the standard approach into PIT (Runway 28R), the aircraft often flies north of the city, placing the downtown area and the Point on your left. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting as the sun moves west, illuminating the mountain ridges and city glass without glare.
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Potomac River Bends
Intricate river loops and the rocky terrain of the Potomac Water Gap near Harpers Ferry.
Ridge and Valley Province
A striking geographic pattern of long, parallel forested ridges separated by cultivated agricultural valleys.
The Allegheny Front
The dramatic eastern escarpment of the Allegheny Plateau, marking a sharp rise in the Appalachian terrain.
Ohio River Confluence
The massive waterway formed by the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers heading northwest toward the Midwest.
The right side is ideal for morning flights (sun on the left) to avoid direct sunlight. It offers a better view of the rugged northern Maryland and southern Pennsylvania mountain corridors. Watch for the 'The Narrows' near Cumberland, MD, a deep water gap through Wills Mountain. Keep your eyes peeled for the distinct change from folded mountains to the flatter plateau region.
Book Hotels in PittsburghDistance: 293 km (182 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 29 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: PIT (40.49150085, -80.23290253)
Route Type: Domestic
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