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IAD → ROC
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Greater Rochester International Airport (Rochester)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the Appalachian mountain ridges during the ascent and a prime look at the Finger Lakes and the Genesee River gorge during the final approach into Rochester.
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Blue Ridge Mountains
Crisp views of the iconic blue-hued ridges shortly after departing Dulles.
Shenandoah Valley
A beautiful patchwork of agricultural lands and rolling hills in northern Virginia.
Susquehanna River
Aerial view of the wide, shallow river winding through the Pennsylvania heartland.
Canandaigua Lake
The westernmost of the major Finger Lakes, recognizable by its distinct Y-shape at the southern tip.
Genesee River Gorge
Dramatic views of the river cutting through the landscape just south of the city.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh eastern glare. This side is particularly scenic in autumn (mid-October) when the Appalachian forests and Finger Lakes vineyards change color. On descent, watch for the 'High Falls' of the Genesee River if the plane approaches from the south.
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Maryland Suburbs
Dense suburban landscapes and the sprawling infrastructure of the I-270 corridor.
State College Area
Distant views of the Pennsylvania wilds and the valley surrounding the Penn State campus.
Cayuga and Seneca Lakes
Panoramic views of the two longest and deepest Finger Lakes stretching northward.
Irondequoit Bay
A stunning view of the narrow bay as the aircraft aligns for its final landing sequence.
Lake Ontario
The vast, sea-like expanse of the Great Lake becomes visible if the pilot loops north of the city.
Choose the right side for sunset flights to catch the reflection of the sky on the Finger Lakes. If the flight path takes a northern loop over Lake Ontario before landing, this side offers an incredible view of the endless blue horizon and the Rochester shoreline. Keep an eye out for the distinct shape of Seneca Lake about 20 minutes before landing.
Book Hotels in RochesterDistance: 465 km (289 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 47 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: ROC (43.118900299072266, -77.67240142822266)
Route Type: Domestic
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