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SFO → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the dramatic high Sierra peaks including Yosemite, the vibrant red rock formations of southern Utah and Colorado, and the lush Shenandoah Valley during the descent into Virginia.
Yosemite National Park
Look down upon the granite domes and high peaks of the Sierra Nevada range shortly after departure.
Canyonlands & Arches
Spectacular red rock formations and winding river canyons across the Utah and Colorado border.
Colorado Rockies
Direct views of the highest peaks in the Rockies, often snow-capped well into the summer months.
Mississippi River
A clear view of the massive waterway dividing the western and eastern United States.
Shenandoah National Park
The rolling Blue Ridge Mountains and the lush valley of northern Virginia during descent.
The right side is ideal for capturing the 'Golden Hour' on late afternoon flights as the sun sets behind the plane. Sit behind the wing to see the flaps in action during the scenic descent over the Appalachians. Keep your camera ready about 90 minutes into the flight for the best desert landscapes.
San Francisco Bay
Clear views of the Bay Bridge, Oakland skyline, and the Berkeley hills immediately after takeoff.
Lake Tahoe
The deep blue waters of North America's largest alpine lake are often visible to the north.
Great Salt Lake
Witness the stark contrast of the white salt flats and the turquoise waters of Utah's massive inland sea.
Agricultural Patterns
The intricate circular and geometric patterns of the Great Plains' center-pivot irrigation systems.
The Great Lakes
Depending on the northern corridor, views of Lake Michigan or Lake Erie coastline may be visible.
Potomac River
The winding river valley leading into the DC metro area during the final approach phase.
Choose a window seat forward of the wing for unobstructed views of the Sierra Nevada. On morning departures, this side stays shaded, reducing glare for photography of the Great Salt Lake. Watch for the transition from the arid Basin and Range province to the lush greenery of the Midwest.
Distance: 3,883 km (2,413 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 34 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: Domestic
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