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IAD → YOW
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (Ottawa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior as it offers expansive views of the Adirondack Mountains and typically provides the best perspective of the Ottawa skyline and the Ottawa River during the final approach.
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National Mall
Distant but clear views of the Washington Monument and Capitol Building during the initial climb out of Dulles.
Adirondack Park
Stunning views of the High Peaks region and the vast, forested wilderness of upstate New York.
St. Lawrence River
A direct view of the international border crossing with cargo ships navigating the Seaway.
Ottawa Skyline
The best view of Parliament Hill, the Fairmont Château Laurier, and the Gatineau Hills during the descent.
The right side is the premier choice for this route. For the best photography, opt for a window seat behind the wing to capture the Adirondacks. During winter, the snow-covered peaks and the frozen St. Lawrence offer spectacular contrast.
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Appalachian Ridges
The distinct folded mountain patterns of the Blue Ridge and Appalachians shortly after takeoff from IAD.
Susquehanna River
Aerial view of the massive, winding river as the flight crosses through central Pennsylvania.
Thousand Islands
The eastern edge of Lake Ontario and the beginning of the St. Lawrence River archipelago.
Ontario Farmlands
The geometric patterns of rural Eastern Ontario as the plane crosses the international border.
The left side is excellent for early morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. It provides a great vantage point for the Appalachian geology and the transition from the US to Canada over the St. Lawrence Seaway.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for CanadaDistance: 724 km (450 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 12 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: YOW (45.3224983215332, -75.66919708251953)
Route Type: International
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