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SVO destination photo
IAD destination photo

SVOIAD

Our Recommendation
8.9

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side is the clear winner for this transpolar-adjacent route, offering unparalleled views of the Greenland Ice Sheet and the rugged Canadian Shield, whereas the left side faces the open Atlantic for several hours.

Right Side Highlights
8.9
🇳🇴

Scandinavian Mountains

The snow-capped peaks and deep fjords of Norway are often visible during the first few hours of flight.

🧊

Greenland Glaciers

Spectacular aerial views of the world's second-largest ice body, including massive outlet glaciers and icebergs.

🏞️

Labrador Coast

The wild, untouched terrain of Northern Canada, featuring thousands of lakes and rugged granite outcrops.

⛰️

Blue Ridge Mountains

Scenic views of the Appalachian range in Virginia as the aircraft descends into the Dulles area.

The Right Side is essential for daylight crossings. The highlight—Greenland—typically appears 4 to 5 hours into the flight. Use a flight tracking app to check if the route goes north enough for Aurora Borealis views during winter months.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🌊

Gulf of Finland

Beautiful views of the Baltic coastline and the Estonian archipelago shortly after takeoff from SVO.

🏙️

East Coast Cities

Passes by the lights or coastal outlines of Boston, New York, and Philadelphia during the final leg.

🏛️

D.C. Approach

A chance to see the Potomac River and the distant Washington D.C. skyline if the plane approaches from the north.

Sit on the left for night flights to enjoy the glittering lights of the U.S. East Coast. This side also avoids the direct glare of the sun during westbound afternoon flights.

Top Activities in Washington
Route Information

Distance: 7,812 km (4,854 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 11 min

Departure: SVO (55.972599, 37.4146)

Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)

Route Type: International

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