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ZRH → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Zürich Airport (Zurich) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is superior for this westbound route as it offers the best views of the Greenland ice sheet and the Canadian coastline while avoiding the direct glare of the southern sun.
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Jura Mountains
Beautiful limestone ridges and forested valleys along the border of Switzerland and France shortly after takeoff.
Greenland Ice Sheet
The crown jewel of the flight, featuring massive glaciers, deep fjords, and floating icebergs near the southern tip.
Newfoundland Coast
Rugged, rocky cliffs and the wild landscapes of eastern Canada as the flight makes landfall.
Cape Cod
The distinctively shaped peninsula of Massachusetts and its surrounding islands like Nantucket.
Boston Skyline
A great vantage point for the city's tall buildings and the complex geometry of Boston Harbor.
Sit on the right for the best lighting; the sun will be on the opposite side, providing soft, indirect light perfect for photos of Greenland. Greenland typically appears 4 to 5 hours into the flight depending on the wind. Use a flight tracker to time your window opening for the Arctic views.
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The Swiss Alps
Immediate views of the snow-capped Glarus Alps and Lake Zurich during the initial climb out of ZRH.
English Channel
Clear perspectives of the northern French coastline and the busy maritime traffic between the UK and Europe.
New York City
Often provides a distant view of the Manhattan skyline and Long Island as the aircraft begins its descent southward.
Potomac River
Scenic views of the winding river and the greenery of the Virginia and Maryland border during the final approach.
The left side is excellent for the first 20 minutes of the flight to see the Alps. However, be prepared for intense sunlight for the majority of the crossing, which can make the cabin warm and photography difficult due to glare.
Get eSIMs for Switzerland
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 6,673 km (4,146 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 51 min
Departure: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: International
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