While takeoff on the right offers coastal views, the landing approach on the left provides superior scenery: the Potomac River, Washington DC's iconic skyline, and the Appalachian Mountains create a more memorable visual experience than the departure from Lome.
Flown LFW to IAD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Lome to Washington is 5,345 miles (8,602 km), a flight of about 10 hours 15 minutes.
Over the Atlantic Ocean, the flight crosses open water for roughly 6-7 hours with no significant landmarks visible. As the aircraft approaches the North American continent, the Appalachian Mountains become visible on the horizon approximately 1-2 hours before landing. The flight path typically passes over or near the Outer Banks of North Carolina before turning inland toward Washington Dulles, though these features are visible only in the final descent phase.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from LFW
RIGHTRight side offers views of the Gulf of Guinea coastline and Lome's urban sprawl extending eastward along the shore. The Atlantic coast curves distinctly northeastward from the airport, making it visible immediately after climb-out on the right wing.
Landing at IAD
LEFTLeft side provides views of the Potomac River, Washington DC's urban core, and the Appalachian foothills to the west during descent into Dulles. The approach path from the northeast brings these features into view on the left wing as you descend toward the airport west of the city.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Lome Tokoin (LFW) to Washington Dulles International (IAD)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Lome to Washington. While takeoff on the right offers coastal views, the landing approach on the left provides superior scenery: the Potomac River, Washington DC's iconic skyline, and the Appalachian Mountains create a more memorable visual experience than the departure from Lome.
What can I see during takeoff from Lome Tokoin in Lome?
During takeoff from Lome Tokoin (LFW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers views of the Gulf of Guinea coastline and Lome's urban sprawl extending eastward along the shore. The Atlantic coast curves distinctly northeastward from the airport, making it visible immediately after climb-out on the right wing. Notable sights include: Gulf of Guinea (immediate coastline), Lome city grid and port facilities, Benin border region to the east along the coast, Atlantic horizon.
What can I see when landing at Washington Dulles International in Washington?
When landing at Washington Dulles International (IAD), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side provides views of the Potomac River, Washington DC's urban core, and the Appalachian foothills to the west during descent into Dulles. The approach path from the northeast brings these features into view on the left wing as you descend toward the airport west of the city. Notable sights include: Potomac River (meandering through DC), Washington DC downtown skyline and monuments, Appalachian ridge lines to the west, Dulles Airport runways and surrounding Virginia countryside.
How long is the flight from Lome to Washington?
The flight from Lome Tokoin (LFW) to Washington Dulles International (IAD) takes about 10 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,345 miles (8,602 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Lome to Washington flight path pass over?
Over the Atlantic Ocean, the flight crosses open water for roughly 6-7 hours with no significant landmarks visible. As the aircraft approaches the North American continent, the Appalachian Mountains become visible on the horizon approximately 1-2 hours before landing. The flight path typically passes over or near the Outer Banks of North Carolina before turning inland toward Washington Dulles, though these features are visible only in the final descent phase.