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ROC → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Greater Rochester International Airport (Rochester) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the Susquehanna River's dramatic curves, the main Finger Lakes, and the Potomac River valley during the final approach into Dulles.
Irondequoit Bay
Visible shortly after takeoff, this narrow bay connects to Lake Ontario and provides a beautiful contrast to the Rochester skyline.
Seneca & Cayuga Lakes
As the plane climbs south, you will see the largest of the Finger Lakes stretching out like long blue fingers through central New York.
Susquehanna River
A major highlight of the flight, the river is easily identifiable as it winds through the deep valleys of Pennsylvania.
Appalachian Ridges
The 'Fold-and-Thrust' belt of the Appalachians creates a series of parallel, forested ridges that look like waves in the earth.
The Potomac River
During the descent into IAD, the left side typically offers views of the river dividing Maryland and Virginia.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the eastern sun. On clear days, the descent often allows a distant glimpse of the Washington Monument if the aircraft patterns to the east of the airport before landing.
Genesee River
Follow the river south from Rochester, seeing the winding path it took to carve the local landscape.
Allegheny Plateau
A vast, rugged area of high ground and deep valleys covered in dense hardwood forests.
Blue Ridge Mountains
On the horizon to the southwest, the Blue Ridge mountains provide a stunning backdrop, especially during sunset flights.
Leesburg & NoVa Suburbs
As you descend, the historic town of Leesburg and the rapidly developing tech corridor of Northern Virginia are clearly visible.
Dulles Main Terminal
The iconic Eero Saarinen-designed terminal is best viewed from the right side when taxiing or during certain southern approach paths.
The right side is perfect for late afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the mountains. Keep an eye out for the distinct 'X' runway configuration of the many small regional airports scattered throughout the Pennsylvania and Maryland countryside.
Distance: 465 km (289 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 47 min
Departure: ROC (43.118900299072266, -77.67240142822266)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: Domestic
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