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CLE â DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (Cleveland) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is premier for the iconic River Visual approach into DCA, offering an incredible view of the National Mall, the U.S. Capitol, and the Washington Monument just moments before touchdown.
Cleveland Skyline
Aerial views of downtown Cleveland and the Lake Erie shoreline immediately after departure from CLE.
Appalachian Ridges
The distinct folded mountain patterns of the Allegheny Mountains and the Appalachian range in Pennsylvania.
The National Mall
A clear view of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol Building during the final descent.
The White House
Visible just north of the National Mall as the plane follows the Potomac River.
Potomac River
Dramatic views of the river's path as the aircraft banks to align with the runway.
Book a window seat on the left for the 'River Visual' approach into Runway 19. This is one of the most scenic landings in the world. For the best lighting on the monuments, aim for a late afternoon flight when the sun illuminates the buildings from the west.
Cuyahoga Valley
The lush greenery of Cuyahoga Valley National Park shortly after taking off from Cleveland.
Deep Creek Lake
The large recreational lake in Western Maryland is often visible during the mid-flight cruise.
The Pentagon
An incredible top-down view of the massive Department of Defense headquarters just before landing.
Arlington National Cemetery
The white headstones and rolling green hills of the historic cemetery adjacent to the Potomac.
GW Memorial Parkway
The scenic drive along the Virginia side of the Potomac River right at the edge of the airport.
While the left side has the monuments, the right side gets an unparalleled view of the Pentagon and Arlington. If the wind dictates a landing from the south (Runway 1), the right side will see the DC skyline in the distance as you turn into the final approach.
Distance: 498 km (309 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 50 min
Departure: CLE (41.4117012024, -81.8498001099)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: Domestic
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