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MUC destination photo
IAD destination photo

MUCIAD

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is generally superior for this transatlantic route, offering spectacular, glare-free views of the Greenland ice cap and the rugged wilderness of Labrador and Quebec.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
⛰️

Scottish Highlands

Rugged peaks and misty lochs visible as the flight exits European airspace.

🧊

Greenland Ice Sheet

One of the most stunning sights in aviation, featuring massive glaciers, deep fjords, and floating icebergs.

🏔️

Torngat Mountains

The wild, jagged peaks of Northern Labrador as the flight enters North American airspace.

🌊

Gulf of St. Lawrence

The vast maritime landscape of Eastern Canada, often featuring intricate coastal patterns.

🌲

Appalachian Ridges

Linear mountain folds and dense forests of Pennsylvania and Maryland during the descent.

The right side provides indirect lighting, which is ideal for capturing the textures of the Greenland ice sheet without window reflections. Monitor the flight map approximately 4 to 5 hours into the flight for the best Arctic views. During winter months, this side offers a better chance of spotting the Aurora Borealis if the flight is delayed into the evening.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🍺

Bavarian Countryside

Rolling green hills and small German villages immediately after takeoff from Munich.

🎡

Southern UK

Aerial views of the English Channel and the sprawl of Greater London depending on the specific flight path.

🚢

Atlantic Shipping Lanes

Occasional views of cargo ships and the vast, deep blue expanse of the North Atlantic Ocean.

🗽

US East Coast

Views of the Long Island coastline and the metropolitan areas of New York and Philadelphia during descent.

🏛️

Potomac River

Scenic views of the river and Northern Virginia suburbs as the plane aligns for arrival at Dulles.

Expect significant sun glare throughout this westbound daylight flight; high-quality sunglasses are essential. Choose this side if you prefer seeing the US coastline and the dense urban corridor of the Northeast during the final 90 minutes of the journey. Seats behind the wing are best to avoid engine heat haze when photographing the East Coast.

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Route Information

Distance: 6,843 km (4,252 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 3 min

Departure: MUC (48.353802, 11.7861)

Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)

Route Type: International

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