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Airport Navigation: Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Located just over 25 miles from the heart of Washington, D.C. in Northern Virginia., Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is an iconic landmark of its surrounding metropolitan area.

With construction beginning in the late 1950’s, and formally dedicated by then President John F. Kennedy in 1962, IAD today welcomes over 21 million travelers each year, many of whom depart to and arrive from more than 125 international locations. It is a bustling airport that went through significant modernization upgrades in 2000, and will continue to apply its Master Plan for years to come.

Location

Originally considered quite a distance from the nation’s capital, IAD now manages significant air traffic on the east coast of the U.S. Getting to IAD is relatively easy to manage as well – there are dedicated lanes on the Dulles Toll Road/Route 267 which are toll-free for those going to the airport. Ground transportation options, such as Dav El|BostonCoach make getting to IAD hassle-free. If you are driving a personal vehicle, there are plenty of parking options, both short and long term.

App It Up!

Making life easier all around is the new D.C. Airports App. You can book travel, check on flights, security wait times, search for dining near your gate, save on parking, and more. Available on Google Play and the App Store.

On-Site

Considered one of the larger airports in the U.S., travelers should plan ahead for on-site maneuvers around IAD, allowing at least 2-3 hours prior to your flight, and check on security lines before leaving home. Once you’re through security, and depending on the terminal that you will fly out of, you will either move around via mobile lounges, Plane Mates or the AeroTrain system.  The terminal maps are hugely helpful too.

Relax

Once you’re at your gate, having checked in and gone through security, you can breathe a sigh of relief. People watching is an excellent idea at IAD, as it is an international thoroughfare. Browse the multitude of shops and the beautiful artwork, or have a meal at one of many restaurants. One neat shopping option is shopping online up to seven days prior to your international flight at Duty Free Americas. Pick up your goods and board your flight! The options are endless at IAD – take advantage of the architecture, art, and international community at work and play.

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