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CVG â DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International Airport (Cincinnati) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is significantly better for the legendary 'River Visual' approach into DCA, offering a direct view of the National Mall and the Pentagon.
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Cincinnati Skyline
A beautiful view of the Queen City skyline and the Ohio River bridges shortly after takeoff from CVG.
Appalachian Ridges
Dramatic views of the linear ridges and deep valleys of the Allegheny Mountains in West Virginia.
Shenandoah Valley
The vast agricultural patchwork of the valley framed by the Massanutten Mountain range.
The National Mall
Unrivaled views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol during the descent.
The Pentagon
A spectacular bird's-eye view of the world's largest office building just seconds before touchdown.
For the best experience, choose a seat forward of the wing on the left side. The 'River Visual' landing (Runway 19) is most common; if the pilot follows this path, you will fly directly past the monuments. Morning flights provide the most favorable lighting for photographing the marble structures of D.C.
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Kentucky Bluegrass
The rolling hills and horse country characteristic of the region surrounding the airport.
Monongahela Forest
Extensive views of the dense, rugged wilderness areas in the heart of the Appalachian range.
Dulles International
Look for the distinctive Eero Saarinen-designed terminal of IAD to the south during descent.
Arlington Cemetery
Views of the white headstone patterns and the Iwo Jima Memorial near the Potomac banks.
Alexandria Waterfront
The historic Old Town area and the Potomac River shoreline as the plane prepares to land.
The right side is best for late afternoon or evening flights to avoid the glare of the sun. While you miss the main D.C. monuments, you get a clear look at the Virginia suburbs and the aircraft's shadow over the Potomac. Seasonal tip: fall foliage in the Appalachians is most vivid in mid-to-late October.
Book Hotels in WashingtonDistance: 660 km (410 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 6 min
Departure: CVG (39.0488014221, -84.6678009033)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: Domestic
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