Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Paris to Washington. While left offers better Paris views during takeoff, right provides superior scenery during the longer descent phase into Washington, including the Potomac River, National Mall, and Shenandoah Valley approach. The landing views are more visually distinctive and occupy more flight time.

During takeoff from Orly (ORY), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the Seine River winding through Paris and the city's urban sprawl extending westward. Right side faces away from central Paris toward suburban areas with less distinctive visual interest during climb-out. Notable sights include: Seine River, Paris city center and Île-de-France urban area, Fontainebleau Forest (visible as dark green expanse southeast), Loire Valley region beginning to appear on horizon.

When landing at Washington Dulles International (IAD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Potomac River, Washington Monument, and the Shenandoah Valley as the aircraft descends toward Dulles. Left side faces toward the Blue Ridge Mountains but at a more oblique angle during the standard approach corridor. Notable sights include: Potomac River, Washington Monument and National Mall, Shenandoah Valley, Blue Ridge Mountains (distant).

The flight from Orly (ORY) to Washington Dulles International (IAD) takes 7h 15m.

Atlantic coastline of Brittany and Normandy (visible during climb-out over western France), Irish Sea and Celtic Sea crossing, Newfoundland coast and Grand Banks region (visible during descent into North America), Appalachian Mountains beginning to appear on eastern horizon during final descent approach