About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Washington Dulles International (IAD) to Hong Kong International (HKG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Washington to Hong Kong. Left side wins at both ends of the flight. During the polar routing over Canada and Alaska, the left side also tends to face south toward more populated and visually interesting terrain including the Canadian Rockies and Alaskan ranges. Over the North Pacific and into East Asia, left-side views of the Chinese coastline and Pearl River Delta on descent seal the recommendation.
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 gives you views over the Virginia and Maryland suburbs toward Washington DC proper. You'll see the Potomac River snaking southeast and the dense urban grid of the DC metro area as you climb out. Notable sights include: Potomac River, Washington DC skyline and National Mall axis, Tysons Corner urban cluster, Chesapeake Bay visible in the far distance on clear days.
What can I see when landing at Hong Kong International in Hong Kong?
When landing at Hong Kong International (HKG), sit on the Left side for the best views. HKIA sits on Lantau Island and aircraft typically approach from the east or northeast over the South China Sea, then swing over the Pearl River Delta. A left-side seat gives you the best view of Lantau Island, the dense high-rise clusters of Kowloon and Hong Kong Island, and the harbor as you descend. Right side faces more open water and the Guangdong coast. Notable sights include: Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island skyline, Kowloon Peninsula high-rise density, Pearl River Delta and its broad muddy outflow, Lantau Island and its mountainous interior.
How long is the flight from Washington to Hong Kong?
The flight from Washington Dulles International (IAD) to Hong Kong International (HKG) takes Approximately 15 to 16 hours nonstop.
What does the Washington to Hong Kong flight path pass over?
The great circle route arcs north over Ontario and Manitoba, then crosses the Canadian Rockies and the Alaska Range, transits the Aleutian Islands chain over the North Pacific, descends over the Kamchatka Peninsula and the Sea of Japan, crosses the Yellow Sea, and approaches Hong Kong from the northeast over the South China Sea and Pearl River Delta