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YOW → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (Ottawa) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the majestic Adirondack High Peaks and the best chance to spot the Washington D.C. monuments during the descent into Dulles.
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St. Lawrence River
Witness the vast waterway and the Thousand Islands shortly after takeoff from Ottawa.
Adirondack Park
Soar over the rugged, forest-covered peaks of northern New York's premier wilderness area.
Scranton Region
Aerial views of the historic Coal Region valleys and urban centers in northeastern Pennsylvania.
D.C. Landmarks
On many arrival paths, you can spot the Washington Monument and Capitol Building in the distance if the plane approaches from the northeast.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh western sun. Watch closely about 10-15 minutes after takeoff for the international border at the St. Lawrence River. During the descent, look east to catch a glimpse of the D.C. skyline if the plane approaches from the north.
Get eSIMs for Canada
Get eSIMs for United StatesLake Ontario
The eastern reaches of the Great Lake are visible to the west shortly after crossing into the USA.
Finger Lakes
Look for the distinctive long, narrow glacial lakes of Central New York.
Appalachian Ridges
Classic 'Ridge and Valley' geological formations through Central Pennsylvania.
Blue Ridge
The rolling green mountains of the Blue Ridge appear as you enter Northern Virginia.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the Appalachian Mountains. It offers a great perspective on the unique linear ridge formations of Pennsylvania. Keep an eye out for the Susquehanna River winding through the mountains during the mid-portion of the flight.
Book Hotels in WashingtonDistance: 724 km (450 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 12 min
Departure: YOW (45.3224983215332, -75.66919708251953)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: International
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