Loading map...
IAD → ZRH
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Zürich Airport (Zurich)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views during the arrival into Zurich, providing a panoramic vista of the Swiss Alps to the south and better lighting for the transatlantic sunrise.
Search flights from IAD to ZRH
Northeast Corridor
Glittering city lights of Philadelphia, New York, and Boston if the flight path stays close to the coast.
Atlantic Sunrise
A front-row seat to the sunrise over the horizon during the final hours of the transatlantic crossing.
The Rhine River
The iconic river winding through the landscape during the final descent into the Zurich airport area.
The Swiss Alps
Breathtaking views of the high Alpine peaks to the south, which are often visible even during the standard landing approach.
The right side is the definitive choice for the arrival phase. As the plane descends into ZRH from the north or west, the majestic Swiss Alps will be visible on the right. Be aware that the sun will be quite strong on this side during the morning arrival, so high-quality sunglasses are recommended for photography.
Book Hotels in Zurich
Chesapeake Bay
Aerial views of the massive estuary and the Delmarva Peninsula shortly after departing Dulles.
Newfoundland Coastline
Rugged, rocky shores and deep fjords as the flight leaves the North American continent.
English Channel
Busy maritime lanes and the northern coastline of France as you transition to the European mainland.
Jura Mountains
Folded mountain ridges and dense forests marking the border between France and Switzerland.
The left side is excellent for seeing the transition from the Atlantic Ocean to the European coast. Since this is an eastbound red-eye, the sun will rise on the right, meaning the left side stays shaded longer, which is better for sleeping and avoiding glare during the early morning descent into Europe.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for SwitzerlandDistance: 6,673 km (4,146 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 51 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.