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ICN destination photo
IAD destination photo

ICNIAD

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior for this long-haul transpacific journey because it faces north, offering prime opportunities to witness the Aurora Borealis during night hours and spectacular views of the Russian Far East and the high Arctic tundra.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🌋

Kamchatka Volcanoes

Dramatic snow-capped volcanic peaks along Russia's eastern coastline shortly after the transpacific segment begins.

🌌

Aurora Borealis

Unmatched views of the Northern Lights when flying through high-latitude airspace over Alaska and Northern Canada during dark cycles.

🧊

Arctic Tundra

The desolate and beautiful frozen landscapes of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, featuring intricate river patterns.

🌊

Hudson Bay

Views of the massive inland sea, often filled with pack ice or deep blue waters depending on the season.

🏙️

Baltimore Skyline

As the flight descends into the Mid-Atlantic region, the urban sprawl of Baltimore and the Chesapeake Bay become visible.

To maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora, choose a flight that departs ICN in the evening. Use a jacket or blanket to block cabin light reflection against the window. During the day, the northern light is softer, making it easier to photograph the high-contrast Arctic ice without harsh glare.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🏝️

Aleutian Islands

The volcanic chain stretching across the North Pacific, visible if the flight path tracks slightly further south.

🏔️

Canadian Rockies

Distances views of the rugged mountain peaks of British Columbia and Alberta as the plane enters North American airspace.

🌊

The Great Lakes

Vast views of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario as the aircraft transitions from Canada into the Northeastern United States.

⛰️

Appalachian Mountains

The rolling green ridges of the Appalachians signify the final leg of the journey into Virginia.

🏛️

Washington D.C. Landmarks

On specific approach patterns into IAD, you may catch a glimpse of the Potomac River and the distant Washington Monument.

The right side experiences more direct sunlight for the duration of the eastbound flight, which can make the cabin quite warm and the glare intense. Keep your window shade partially closed during the mid-flight segment but open it as you cross the Great Lakes for beautiful sun-glinted water views.

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Route Information

Distance: 11,173 km (6,943 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 13 hrs 9 min

Departure: ICN (37.46910095214844, 126.45099639892578)

Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)

Route Type: International

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