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SAT → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from San Antonio International Airport (San Antonio) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior perspective of the unique Appalachian ridge-and-valley formations and the Potomac River during northern approach patterns into Dulles.
Search flights from SAT to IAD
San Antonio Skyline
Bird's eye view of the Tower of the Americas and downtown San Antonio during initial climb.
Mississippi River
Crossing the massive river near Memphis, showcasing oxbow lakes and heavy barge traffic.
Nashville Basin
Views of the Cumberland River and the sprawling metropolitan area of Music City.
West Virginia Ridges
Spectacular views of the long, parallel geological folds of the Appalachian Mountains.
Potomac River
Gliding over the river boundary between Maryland and Virginia during the final descent.
Sit on the left to avoid harsh afternoon sun glare during this northeasterly flight. In the final 45 minutes, keep your camera ready for the distinct corrugated appearance of the West Virginia mountains. This side is also preferred for North-to-South landing patterns at IAD, which often follow the Potomac River.
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Piney Woods
Dense evergreen forests of East Texas and the Arkansas timberlands stretching to the horizon.
Mississippi Delta
Looking south over the vast, fertile floodplain and the winding southern reaches of the river.
Smoky Mountain Fringes
Distant views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park peaks to the southeast.
Shenandoah Valley
Lush agricultural landscapes and the Blue Ridge Mountains just before the final descent.
DC Monuments
On clear days with specific landing patterns, the Washington Monument and Capitol may be visible in the distance.
The right side is ideal for morning departures as the sun rises to the east, providing soft lighting over the Texas forests. Look out for the 'checkerboard' farm patterns of the Shenandoah Valley. If the plane approaches Dulles from the south, you might catch a glimpse of the National Mall in the far distance to the east.
Book Hotels in WashingtonDistance: 2,189 km (1,360 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 55 min
Departure: SAT (29.533700942993164, -98.46980285644533)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: Domestic
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