The Manhattan skyline departure is a far more dramatic and recognizable scene than the moderate Virginia countryside on arrival, giving the left side the edge for this short flight.
Flight Path
Suburban New Jersey, Delaware River valley, Chesapeake Bay's northern tributaries, rolling Maryland countryside
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from LGA
LEFTDeparting LGA on runway 22 heading northeast then turning southwest, left-side passengers get a sweeping view of the Manhattan skyline, the East River, and LaGuardia's shoreline before the turn toward Washington. This is one of the most iconic urban departure views in the US.
Landing at IAD
RIGHTOn approach into IAD from the north (runway 01 operations), the right side offers views over the Potomac River and the wooded Virginia piedmont, with occasional glimpses of the Blue Ridge foothills to the west before the final turn.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from La Guardia (LGA) to Washington Dulles International (IAD)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from New York to Washington. The Manhattan skyline departure is a far more dramatic and recognizable scene than the moderate Virginia countryside on arrival, giving the left side the edge for this short flight.
What can I see during takeoff from La Guardia in New York?
During takeoff from La Guardia (LGA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing LGA on runway 22 heading northeast then turning southwest, left-side passengers get a sweeping view of the Manhattan skyline, the East River, and LaGuardia's shoreline before the turn toward Washington. This is one of the most iconic urban departure views in the US. Notable sights include: Manhattan skyline, East River, Rikers Island, Long Island Sound.
What can I see when landing at Washington Dulles International in Washington?
When landing at Washington Dulles International (IAD), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into IAD from the north (runway 01 operations), the right side offers views over the Potomac River and the wooded Virginia piedmont, with occasional glimpses of the Blue Ridge foothills to the west before the final turn. Notable sights include: Potomac River, Virginia piedmont hills, Dulles Airport terminal.
How long is the flight from New York to Washington?
The flight from La Guardia (LGA) to Washington Dulles International (IAD) takes 1h 05m.
What does the New York to Washington flight path pass over?
Suburban New Jersey, Delaware River valley, Chesapeake Bay's northern tributaries, rolling Maryland countryside