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YYZ → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Lester B. Pearson International Airport (Toronto) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally superior for this short hop, offering an iconic view of the Toronto skyline and CN Tower immediately after takeoff, followed by a direct perspective of the Finger Lakes and the winding Susquehanna River.
Toronto Skyline
Unbeatable views of the CN Tower and downtown core during the initial climb out of Pearson.
Lake Ontario
A massive expanse of blue as the aircraft crosses the international border into U.S. airspace.
Finger Lakes
Distinctive long, narrow glacial lakes of Upstate New York, particularly Seneca and Cayuga lakes.
Susquehanna River
Aerial views of the wide, shallow river meandering through the Appalachian mountains of Pennsylvania.
Potomac Approach
Glimpses of the Maryland and Virginia suburbs as the plane aligns for the descent into Dulles.
On morning flights, the sun will be behind you on this side, providing perfect lighting for photography. Choose a seat forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Toronto skyline during the steep banking turns typical of YYZ departures.
Niagara Falls
If the flight path trends slightly west, the mist and horseshoe curve of the falls are visible in the distance.
Allegheny Mountains
Dense forest cover and ridge-and-valley formations typical of the northern Appalachian range.
Lehigh Valley
Views of the industrial and residential clusters scattered throughout eastern Pennsylvania.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The hazy, rolling peaks of the Blue Ridge as you enter Northern Virginia airspace.
The right side is ideal for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Appalachian range. While Niagara Falls is visible, it is often distant; keep your eyes peeled roughly 10-15 minutes after takeoff. This side also offers a quieter cabin experience as it faces away from the morning sun.
Distance: 557 km (346 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 56 min
Departure: YYZ (43.6772003174, -79.63059997559999)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: International
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