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CHA destination photo
DCA destination photo

CHA → DCA

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior for its iconic views of the National Mall, including the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, during the 'River Visual' approach into DCA.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
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Appalachian Ridges

Long, parallel ridges of the Blue Ridge Mountains stretching toward the northern horizon.

ðŸŒū

Shenandoah Valley

A vast, fertile valley nestled between the Allegheny and Blue Ridge mountains.

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National Mall

Unobstructed views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol Building.

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Rosslyn Skyline

The dense cluster of high-rise buildings in Arlington standing directly across from D.C.

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Georgetown

The historic colorful rooftops and university spires on the banks of the Potomac.

Sit on the left for the best chance to see the D.C. monuments. This view is most dramatic during the 'River Visual' approach for Runway 19. For morning flights, the sun will be behind you, providing perfectly lit landscapes. In autumn, the Appalachian foliage offers a stunning tapestry of red and gold from mid-October to early November.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
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Lookout Mountain

The distinctive ridge south of Chattanooga visible immediately after takeoff.

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George Washington Forest

Dense, rolling woodlands covering the Piedmont region of Virginia.

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Potomac River Bends

The wide, winding curves of the Potomac River as it flows toward the Chesapeake.

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The Pentagon

A direct, top-down perspective of the world's largest office building just before touchdown.

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Arlington National Cemetery

The solemn, geometric rows of white markers across the sprawling green hills.

The right side offers an incredible view of the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery during the final seconds of flight. If the plane lands from the south (Runway 1), you will see the Alexandria waterfront. Choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze distorting your photos of the Pentagon.

Top Activities in Washington
Route Information

Distance: 840 km (522 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 24 min

Departure: CHA (35.03530120849609, -85.20379638671875)

Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)

Route Type: Domestic

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