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ATL → DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the iconic landmarks of Washington D.C. during the famous 'River Visual' approach into DCA, including the National Mall and the White House.
Atlanta Perimeter
View of the sprawling Atlanta metropolitan area and the Buckhead skyline shortly after takeoff.
Appalachian Foothills
Distant views of the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains as the flight tracks northeast through the Piedmont region.
The Pentagon
A clear overhead view of the world's largest office building during the final descent into Reagan National.
National Mall
Unparalleled views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol Building.
The White House
A rare bird's-eye perspective of the executive mansion and the Ellipse just before touchdown.
Book a window seat on the left (port) side for the legendary 'River Visual' approach to Runway 19. If the winds are from the south, you'll follow the Potomac River directly past the monuments. Evening flights are spectacular as the monuments are illuminated, while morning flights offer the best lighting on the buildings without glare from the sun.
Oconee National Forest
Expansive views of Georgia's dense pine forests during the initial climb phase.
Lake Gaston
A large reservoir straddling the North Carolina and Virginia border, popular for summer recreation.
Alexandria Waterfront
The historic Old Town Alexandria area and the bustling waterfront along the Potomac River.
Nationals Park
The home stadium of the Washington Nationals is visible if the plane approaches from the south (Runway 1).
The right side is ideal if the flight lands toward the north (Runway 1), providing a great view of the Alexandria waterfront and the National Harbor. It also experiences less direct sun during the northbound flight in the afternoon, making it more comfortable for viewing the landscape without excessive cabin heat.
Distance: 880 km (547 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 28 min
Departure: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: Domestic
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