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IAD → PUJ
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Punta Cana International Airport (Punta Cana)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer views of the Atlantic, the Right Side (Starboard) is superior for this route as it typically passes directly over the stunning turquoise shallows of the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos islands.
Search flights from IAD to PUJ
Potomac River
Excellent views of the Potomac and the DMV area immediately following takeoff from Dulles.
The Bahamas
Spectacular views of the Exumas and Long Island, featuring iconic turquoise 'veins' in the shallow water.
Turks and Caicos
Direct flyovers of Providenciales and the surrounding vibrant coral reef systems.
Hispaniola Highlands
The lush, mountainous terrain of the Dominican Republic's interior as the plane begins its final approach.
Mona Passage
The deep blue waters separating Hispaniola from Puerto Rico visible just before landing.
Sit on the right side for the 'Bahamas show.' About 2.5 hours into the flight, the ocean transforms from navy blue to bright teal. To avoid wing obstruction of the shallow reefs, choose a seat either forward of row 10 or behind row 25. For afternoon flights, this side also avoids the harshest direct sunlight.
Book Hotels in Punta CanaAtlantic Horizon
Expansive views of the deep blue Atlantic Ocean for the majority of the cruise phase.
Outer Banks
Distant views of the thin barrier islands of North Carolina during the early stage of the flight.
Grand Turk
Possible sightings of the easternmost Turks and Caicos islands depending on the specific airway used.
Bávaro Coastline
Aerial perspectives of the dense resort clusters and white sands as you bank toward PUJ airport.
The left side is ideal for morning flights if you want to see the sunrise over the ocean, though glare can be intense. On descent into PUJ, you often get a better view of the concentrated resort areas and the reef line protecting the beaches.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for Dominican RepublicDistance: 2,430 km (1,510 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 14 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: PUJ (18.567399978599997, -68.36340332030001)
Route Type: International
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