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IAD → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Left Side of the Plane
While both sides offer stunning views of the Rockies and the desert, the left side is the clear winner for the iconic approach into San Diego, providing an unparalleled view of the downtown skyscrapers and the San Diego Bay.
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Appalachian Mountains
Aerial views of the rolling Blue Ridge and Allegheny ridges shortly after takeoff from Dulles.
Mississippi River
Cross the massive winding waterway near St. Louis, often providing a glimpse of the Gateway Arch.
Sangre de Cristo Mountains
The southern tip of the Rockies presents dramatic snow-capped peaks and high-altitude terrain.
Grand Canyon & Painted Desert
Depending on the specific flight corridor, the South Rim and the colorful erosion patterns of Arizona are visible.
San Diego Skyline
The 'urban canyon' approach into SAN provides a legendary view of downtown high-rises and the harbor.
Book an 'A' window seat for the most dramatic landing experience in the U.S. Flying west in the morning keeps the sun on your left, while afternoon flights offer softer lighting for photos of the desert southwest. Keep your camera ready as soon as the plane begins its steep descent over the North Park neighborhood.
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The Great Plains
A geometric mosaic of agricultural circles and fields stretching across Kansas and eastern Colorado.
Colorado Front Range
Spectacular views of Pikes Peak and the towering peaks of the central Rocky Mountains.
Mojave Desert
Vast stretches of arid landscape, dry lake beds, and rugged desert mountains near the California border.
Palomar Mountain
Spot the famous white dome of the Palomar Observatory in the mountains of North San Diego County.
Balboa Park
On final approach, look down for the lush greenery, museums, and the San Diego Zoo.
The right side ('F' seats) is better if you want to avoid direct southern sun glare during the midday portion of the flight. It offers a great perspective of the higher Rocky Mountain peaks and the dense greenery of Balboa Park just seconds before touchdown. It is also the side to be on for views of the Salton Sea if the route tracks slightly north.
Book Hotels in San DiegoDistance: 3,618 km (2,248 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 15 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: Domestic
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