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IAD → SHD
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport (Weyers Cave)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the Dulles airport architecture upon departure and a clearer view of the unique Massanutten Mountain formation during the descent into the valley.
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Dulles Airport Complex
Aerial view of the iconic Eero Saarinen-designed terminal and the vast runway layout during takeoff.
Bull Run Mountains
The first major ridgeline encountered as the plane transitions from the coastal plain to the highlands.
Skyline Drive
The famous scenic roadway snaking along the very crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Massanutten Mountain
A striking, isolated mountain ridge located entirely within the Shenandoah Valley, visible during descent.
Front Royal
The northern gateway town where the Shenandoah River forks, visible at the foot of the mountains.
This side provides the best view of the 'kink' in the valley caused by Massanutten Mountain. Afternoon flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the valley floor and the western face of the Blue Ridge. Keep your camera ready immediately after takeoff for a birds-eye view of the Udvar-Hazy Center and its parked aircraft.
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Manassas National Battlefield
Historical Civil War site featuring open fields and woods visible shortly after departure from Dulles.
Old Rag Mountain
The most iconic peak in Virginia with a distinct granite summit visible as you approach the mountains.
Shenandoah National Park
Expansive views of the dense forest canopy covering the central district of the Blue Ridge range.
Piedmont Vineyards
A patchwork of rolling hills and wineries through Fauquier and Rappahannock counties.
Choose this side for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise reflecting off the mountain ridges without direct sun glare. Watch for the sharp, rocky peak of Old Rag Mountain about 15 minutes into the flight. This side is particularly stunning in mid-October when the autumn colors peak on the eastern slopes.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 146 km (91 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 15 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: SHD (38.2638015747, -78.8964004517)
Route Type: Domestic
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