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IAD → SJO
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is typically superior for this route as it offers the best views of the U.S. East Coast, the vibrant turquoise reefs of the Bahamas, and a spectacular close-up of the Poás Volcano crater during the descent into the San José valley.
National Mall
A potential view of the U.S. Capitol and Washington Monument shortly after takeoff from IAD depending on departure patterns.
Chesapeake Bay
The intricate patterns of the bay and the Atlantic shoreline as the plane tracks south along the coast.
Bahamian Cays
Incredible turquoise water patterns and small coral islands while crossing the northern Caribbean.
Port of Limón
Costa Rica's main Caribbean port and the lush tropical coastline visible before the final turn inland.
Poás Volcano
One of Costa Rica's most active craters, often visible on the left during the final descent into the Central Valley.
Book an afternoon flight to have the sun behind you for the best photos of the Caribbean. On approach to SJO, look for the turquoise crater lake of Poás Volcano; it is one of the most iconic sights in Costa Rica.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The scenic Appalachian range running parallel to the flight path through Virginia and the Carolinas.
Florida Coastline
High-altitude views of Central Florida's geography and the dense urban development around the Space Coast.
Everglades
The vast, watery wilderness of Southern Florida visible before heading out over the Caribbean Sea.
Lake Nicaragua
The massive freshwater lake and the twin volcanoes of Ometepe visible in the distance to the west.
San José Valley
A panoramic view of the bustling capital city surrounded by coffee-covered hills during the landing sequence.
Morning flights on the right side avoid direct sunlight, making for more comfortable viewing. This side offers a great perspective of the Florida peninsula and the massive Lake Nicaragua before entering Costa Rican airspace.
Distance: 3,288 km (2,043 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 52 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Route Type: International
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