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VIE → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Vienna International Airport (Vienna) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior due to the high probability of passing over Greenland and the Canadian Maritimes, offering dramatic arctic landscapes and better lighting conditions away from the direct southern sun.
Northern Germany
Observe the patchwork of German forests and historic cities like Frankfurt or Cologne depending on the specific flight path.
Greenland Ice Sheet
The highlight of the route, offering views of massive glaciers and floating icebergs on clear days about 4-5 hours into the journey.
Labrador Coastline
The wild and rugged eastern edge of Canada features stunning fjords and rocky terrain as you re-enter North American airspace.
New England Wilderness
Fly over the dense forests of Maine and Massachusetts as the plane turns south toward Washington D.C.
Potomac River
On the final approach, the winding Potomac River provides a scenic welcome to Northern Virginia.
Sit on the right for the most iconic views of this transatlantic route. Approximately halfway through the flight, watch for the massive ice sheets of Greenland; visibility is best in late spring and summer. This side avoids direct sunlight for the duration of the trip, making it much easier to keep your window shade up for photography. The descent offers excellent views of the Potomac River valley just before landing at Dulles.
Vienna & Danube
Catch a final look at the Austrian capital and the winding Blue Danube shortly after takeoff.
Austrian Alps
Looking south, you can see the northern fringes of the Alps during the initial climb.
English Channel
The transition from mainland Europe to the Atlantic often provides clear views of the UK coast.
Chesapeake Bay
Beautiful views of the Maryland coastline and the bay's intricate inlets during descent.
Dulles Approach
Views of the Virginia countryside and suburban Washington as the plane aligns for landing.
The left side provides a nice view of the Alps to the south during the first hour and the Chesapeake Bay upon arrival. However, because this is a westward flight during the day, the sun will be positioned to the south, causing significant glare and heat. Keep your window shade partially closed during the mid-Atlantic crossing to avoid discomfort while still checking for the coastal approach to IAD.
Distance: 7,165 km (4,452 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 26 min
Departure: VIE (48.110298156738, 16.569700241089002)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: International
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