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YTZ → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Billy Bishop Toronto City Centre Airport (Toronto) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an unparalleled view of the Toronto skyline immediately after takeoff from YTZ, followed by spectacular aerial views of the Appalachian ridge-and-valley formations in Pennsylvania.
Toronto Skyline
Breathtaking close-up views of the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, and the downtown financial district shortly after takeoff.
Lake Ontario
A sweeping view of the Toronto Islands and the vast expanse of the lake as you head south toward the US border.
Susquehanna River
Aerial view of the massive river winding through the Pennsylvania landscape near Harrisburg.
Appalachian Ridges
Distinctive parallel mountain ridges and valleys that characterize the central Pennsylvania geography.
For the best experience, choose a seat toward the front or back to avoid the wing. On takeoff from YTZ (usually Runway 08 or 26), the left side is the 'city side.' In the afternoon, this side is also shaded, reducing glare for photography of the mountain ridges.
Niagara Region
Distant views of the Niagara Escarpment and the Welland Canal area of Ontario/New York.
Finger Lakes
The southern tips of the glacial Finger Lakes in New York state are often visible in the distance.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Scenic views of the Shenandoah Valley and the start of the Blue Ridge chain during descent.
Washington D.C. Horizon
On clear days during the approach to IAD, you can often spot the Washington Monument and Capitol building on the far eastern horizon.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to see the sun illuminate the landscape. If landing at Dulles from the north, this side provides a wider perspective of the Virginia countryside and the unique architecture of the Eero Saarinen-designed main terminal upon landing.
Distance: 545 km (339 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 55 min
Departure: YTZ (43.627499, -79.396202)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: International
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