The right side wins across all phases: Blue Ridge views at departure, likely sightings of the Rockies and high desert plateau near the Grand Canyon during cruise, and a scenic descent over downtown San Diego and Balboa Park on arrival.
Flown IAD to SAN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Washington to San Diego is 2,248 miles (3,618 km), a flight of about 5 hours 15 minutes.
Rocky Mountains near Denver, Colorado Plateau, and the high desert terrain of northern Arizona and southern Utah along the westbound transcontinental route
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from IAD
RIGHTDeparting IAD southbound before turning west, the right side offers glimpses of the Blue Ridge Mountains rising on the horizon as the plane climbs over the Virginia Piedmont, while the left side shows mostly flat farmland and suburban sprawl.
Landing at SAN
RIGHTOn the typical east approach into SAN runway 27, the right side of the aircraft faces north and gets a clear view of downtown San Diego's skyline and the green expanse of Balboa Park just before touchdown, while the left side mostly overlooks residential canyons and Coronado in the distance.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Washington Dulles International (IAD) to San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Washington to San Diego. The right side wins across all phases: Blue Ridge views at departure, likely sightings of the Rockies and high desert plateau near the Grand Canyon during cruise, and a scenic descent over downtown San Diego and Balboa Park on arrival.
What can I see during takeoff from Washington Dulles International in Washington?
During takeoff from Washington Dulles International (IAD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing IAD southbound before turning west, the right side offers glimpses of the Blue Ridge Mountains rising on the horizon as the plane climbs over the Virginia Piedmont, while the left side shows mostly flat farmland and suburban sprawl. Notable sights include: Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah Valley foothills, Virginia Piedmont farmland.
What can I see when landing at San Diego International Lindbergh Fld in San Diego?
When landing at San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN), sit on the Right side for the best views. On the typical east approach into SAN runway 27, the right side of the aircraft faces north and gets a clear view of downtown San Diego's skyline and the green expanse of Balboa Park just before touchdown, while the left side mostly overlooks residential canyons and Coronado in the distance. Notable sights include: Downtown San Diego skyline, Balboa Park, Mission Valley, San Diego Bay.
How long is the flight from Washington to San Diego?
The flight from Washington Dulles International (IAD) to San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN) takes about 5 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,248 miles (3,618 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Washington to San Diego flight path pass over?
Rocky Mountains near Denver, Colorado Plateau, and the high desert terrain of northern Arizona and southern Utah along the westbound transcontinental route