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PVD destination photo
IAD destination photo

PVDIAD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers the most iconic views, including a high-altitude perspective of the Manhattan skyline, the Hudson River corridor, and the industrial landscape of the Northeast Corridor.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Manhattan Skyline

Unrivaled views of the Empire State Building, Central Park, and One World Trade Center when passing over Northern NJ.

⚓

Hudson River

A clear view of the George Washington Bridge and the palisades separating New York and New Jersey.

🥨

Philadelphia Metro

The urban sprawl and skyline of Philadelphia are often visible to the west mid-flight.

🌉

Susquehanna River

The wide, rocky crossing of this major river as you enter Maryland airspace.

🌳

Potomac River Valley

Lush greenery and winding river views during the final approach into Dulles International.

The right side is superior for sunset flights, offering a golden hour view over the Appalachian foothills. Keep your camera ready about 20-30 minutes after takeoff for the NYC flyby, as this is the trip's visual peak. On a clear day, the contrast between the urban centers and the lush Maryland countryside is striking.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Narragansett Bay

Immediate views after takeoff of the Rhode Island coastline and the islands near Newport.

🏝️

Long Island Sound

A long stretch over the water with views of the North Shore and the Hamptons in the distance.

🏙️

Jersey Shore

The sandy coastline extending south toward Atlantic City, visible as the plane crosses over New Jersey.

🚢

Delaware Bay

The massive expanse where the Delaware River opens into the Atlantic Ocean.

🦅

Chesapeake Bay

Detailed views of the Eastern Shore's intricate waterways and tidal inlets during the descent.

Sit on the left for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise reflecting off the Atlantic. During the descent into IAD from the northeast, you may catch a distant glimpse of the US Naval Academy in Annapolis if the flight path remains coastal.

Top Activities in Washington
Route Information

Distance: 598 km (372 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr

Departure: PVD (41.732601, -71.42040300000001)

Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)

Route Type: Domestic

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