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RDU → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Raleigh Durham International Airport (Raleigh-durham) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers superior views of the Appalachian foothills and the dramatic ridge lines of Shenandoah National Park during the northern ascent.
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Blue Ridge Mountains
Vast views of the rolling blue-hued peaks of the Appalachian range to the west.
Shenandoah National Park
Aerial perspective of the dense forest canopy and the winding Skyline Drive.
Charlottesville
Glimpse the historic University of Virginia campus and the surrounding Piedmont estates.
Bull Run Mountains
The easternmost front of the Blue Ridge, marking the transition into Northern Virginia.
Opt for an afternoon flight to see the sun illuminate the mountains to the west. Sit behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Shenandoah Valley during the descent into Dulles.
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Falls Lake
Large scenic reservoir visible immediately after departure from Raleigh-Durham.
Richmond Skyline
Distal views of Virginia's capital city and the James River winding through the urban core.
Potomac River
The iconic waterway that defines the border between Virginia and Maryland during final approach.
Tysons Corner
The massive 'edge city' skyline of Northern Virginia visible just before touchdown.
Choose the right side for morning flights to have the sun at your back. Keep an eye out for the Potomac River; depending on the landing pattern, you may see the Washington D.C. monument skyline in the far distance.
Book Hotels in WashingtonDistance: 361 km (224 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 36 min
Departure: RDU (35.877601623535156, -78.7874984741211)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: Domestic
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