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RUH → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is generally superior for this long-haul route as it frequently aligns with the Great Circle track, providing views of the European Alps, the potential for Greenland's ice sheets, and the rugged terrain of Atlantic Canada.
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The Dead Sea
Aerial perspective of the deep blue, salt-heavy waters and the surrounding desert depressions.
The Alps
Stunning vistas of the snow-capped Swiss and French Alps during the mid-portion of the journey.
Greenland Icecap
On more northerly tracks, witness the massive, cracked glaciers and white expanses of the world's largest island.
Newfoundland Coastline
The first sight of North America often includes the jagged, rocky inlets and deep fjords of eastern Canada.
London or Paris
Depending on the route, you may see the urban sprawl of major European capitals to the north.
The right side is essential if you want a chance to see Greenland. Because this flight covers many time zones, a daytime flight is highly recommended to see the transition from the Alps to the Arctic. During winter, northern lights may be visible on the right side if the flight path is sufficiently north.
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Nile Delta
The lush green fan of the Nile meeting the Mediterranean Sea is often visible shortly after departure.
Mediterranean Islands
Scenic views of the Balearic Islands or the southern coast of Europe depending on the specific flight corridor.
East Coast Megalopolis
Distant views of major US cities like Boston or New York as the plane travels south along the coast.
Potomac River
On the final approach to Dulles, the left side offers views of the winding river and the Virginia countryside.
Choose the left side for better lighting during westbound morning departures, as the sun will be behind the aircraft for most of the Mediterranean crossing. Keep an eye out for the transition from the arid Middle East to the blue waters of the Mediterranean.
Get eSIMs for Saudi Arabia
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 10,842 km (6,737 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 12 hrs 45 min
Departure: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: International
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