The right side wins overall because the Atlantic Ocean crossing offers sustained views of the Iberian Peninsula's southern coastline and the Strait of Gibraltar from the right side as the flight tracks southeast, and the Casablanca arrival on the right delivers the most visually rewarding sequence of ocean, coastline, and city. The DC departure views on the left are excellent but briefer.
Flight Path
The flight tracks northeast over the Chesapeake Bay, then out over the North Atlantic. It crosses the southern tip of Ireland or northern France depending on routing, then the Iberian Peninsula over Spain and Portugal, passing near or over Lisbon. The Strait of Gibraltar and the Atlas Mountains of northern Morocco are visible on descent. The broad flat Chaouia agricultural plain surrounds the airport on approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Washington Dulles International (IAD) to Mohammed V (CMN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Washington to Casablanca. The right side wins overall because the Atlantic Ocean crossing offers sustained views of the Iberian Peninsula's southern coastline and the Strait of Gibraltar from the right side as the flight tracks southeast, and the Casablanca arrival on the right delivers the most visually rewarding sequence of ocean, coastline, and city. The DC departure views on the left are excellent but briefer.
What can I see during takeoff from Washington Dulles International in Washington?
During takeoff from Washington Dulles International (IAD), sit on the Left side for the best views. Dulles typically departs east on runway 01R/19L or uses runways oriented northeast, meaning a left-side seat faces northwest then sweeps toward Washington DC as the aircraft turns east. You get a clear view of the Potomac River, the DC Mall corridor, and the Virginia suburbs spreading out below. The Capitol dome and Washington Monument are identifiable on clear days as the aircraft climbs through 5,000-8,000 feet. Notable sights include: Potomac River, Washington DC Mall and monuments, Chesapeake Bay (distant, during eastward climb), Blue Ridge Mountains to the west.
What can I see when landing at Mohammed V in Casablanca?
When landing at Mohammed V (CMN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Mohammed V Airport serves Casablanca from the northeast, with aircraft typically approaching from the north or northeast on runway 17L/35R. A right-side seat on approach gives you the Atlantic coastline of Morocco, the sprawling white urban mass of Casablanca itself, and the port district along the coast. The Hassan II Mosque's distinctive minaret is visible from the air near the shoreline on clear approaches. Notable sights include: Atlantic Ocean coastline, Casablanca urban grid and port, Hassan II Mosque minaret near the shore, agricultural plains of the Chaouia region.
How long is the flight from Washington to Casablanca?
The flight from Washington Dulles International (IAD) to Mohammed V (CMN) takes Approximately 7 hours 30 minutes to 8 hours 30 minutes.
What does the Washington to Casablanca flight path pass over?
The flight tracks northeast over the Chesapeake Bay, then out over the North Atlantic. It crosses the southern tip of Ireland or northern France depending on routing, then the Iberian Peninsula over Spain and Portugal, passing near or over Lisbon. The Strait of Gibraltar and the Atlas Mountains of northern Morocco are visible on descent. The broad flat Chaouia agricultural plain surrounds the airport on approach.