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MCO → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Orlando International Airport (Orlando) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic coastline, the unique geography of the Outer Banks, and the expansive Chesapeake Bay during the descent into the D.C. area.
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Space Coast
Look for the Kennedy Space Center and the distinctive Vehicle Assembly Building along the Florida coast.
Charleston Harbor
Spot the iconic Ravenel Bridge and the historic battery of this South Carolina coastal gem.
The Outer Banks
Stunning aerial perspectives of the thin barrier islands and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Chesapeake Bay
Marvel at the vast estuary and the intricate network of inlets as you begin the final descent.
Potomac River
Follow the winding path of the river that separates Virginia and Maryland as the plane aligns with the runway.
The right side is the scenic winner for this route. Aim for an afternoon flight to see the sun reflecting off the Atlantic Ocean and the North Carolina sounds. Be ready with your camera about 20-30 minutes before landing for the best views of the Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River basin.
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Orlando Skyline
View the downtown skyline and the surrounding chain of lakes immediately after takeoff from MCO.
St. Johns River
Observe the longest river in Florida as it winds through lush wetlands and forests.
Piedmont Plateau
See the transition from the flat coastal plains to the rolling green hills of the Carolinas and Virginia.
Northern Virginia Suburbs
Detailed views of the sprawling residential and data center corridors of Loudoun and Fairfax counties.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind the aircraft and avoid glare. If the flight departs to the west, you may catch a glimpse of the major theme parks shortly after takeoff. This side is also better for seeing the distant blue haze of the Appalachian Mountains on very clear days.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,222 km (759 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min
Departure: MCO (28.429399490356445, -81.30899810791016)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: Domestic
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