About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Washington Dulles International (IAD) to Edinburgh (EDI)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Washington to Edinburgh. Left side wins at both ends of the flight. At departure you get the Potomac and DC skyline; at arrival you get the Firth of Forth, the Forth Bridges, and Arthur's Seat on approach. Over the Atlantic the views are similar on both sides, but the bookend moments strongly favor the left.
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. IAD typically departs eastward on runways 01R/01L or westward on 19R/19L depending on winds. On the dominant eastward departure (runway 01R heading northeast), the left side gives you a clear view back over the Dulles corridor, Tysons Corner, and the Potomac River as the aircraft banks north. You'll also catch the Washington DC skyline in the distance to the southeast. Notable sights include: Potomac River, Washington DC skyline (Capitol dome, Washington Monument visible on clear days), Tysons Corner urban cluster, Loudoun County farmland patchwork.
What can I see when landing at Edinburgh in Edinburgh?
When landing at Edinburgh (EDI), sit on the Left side for the best views. Edinburgh Airport uses runway 06/24 predominantly. On the common westerly approach to runway 06, aircraft track in from the west over the Firth of Forth and the city. The left side gives a direct view of Edinburgh city centre, Arthur's Seat, and the Firth of Forth as you descend. The right side faces south toward open farmland. Notable sights include: Firth of Forth and Forth Bridges (Road and Rail), Arthur's Seat volcanic hill, Edinburgh city centre and castle rock, Pentland Hills to the south.
How long is the flight from Washington to Edinburgh?
The flight from Washington Dulles International (IAD) to Edinburgh (EDI) takes Approximately 7.5 to 8.5 hours.
What does the Washington to Edinburgh flight path pass over?
The flight tracks northeast from Virginia, crossing Long Island and departing the US coast near Newfoundland. The mid-Atlantic crossing passes south of Greenland. Approaching Europe, the route crosses Ireland — the green patchwork of County Donegal and the Irish midlands may be visible — before crossing the Irish Sea and entering Scotland from the southwest over Ayrshire and the Clyde estuary.