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DAY destination photo
DCA destination photo

DAY β†’ DCA

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is renowned for providing the iconic 'River Visual' approach into DCA, offering a front-row seat to the United States Capitol, the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial just seconds before touchdown.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
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Dayton Skyline

Aerial views of downtown Dayton and the University of Dayton campus shortly after takeoff from DAY.

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Appalachian Mountains

The distinct parallel ridges and valleys of the Appalachian range stretching across West Virginia.

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Shenandoah Valley

A wide, picturesque valley nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Alleghenies.

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The National Mall

Unrivaled views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the Smithsonian museums on the approach path.

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U.S. Capitol Building

The iconic white dome is clearly visible as the aircraft banks to align with the Potomac River.

Sit on the left side to maximize your chances of seeing the famous River Visual approach. This path follows the Potomac River south, placing the monuments directly outside your window. For the best lighting, mid-morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the white marble of the DC landmarks. Avoid seats directly over the wing for unobstructed views of the city center.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
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Ohio River

The winding path of the Ohio River as it snakes through the border regions of Ohio and West Virginia.

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Monongahela Forest

Expansive views of the dense, high-altitude forests of the West Virginia highlands.

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The Pentagon

A clear view of the massive five-sided headquarters of the Department of Defense near the end of the flight.

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Arlington Cemetery

The rolling green hills and neat white rows of Arlington National Cemetery visible on the Virginia side of the river.

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Old Town Alexandria

If landing from the south, you'll see the historic waterfront and cobblestone streets of Alexandria.

The right side is excellent for seeing the Virginia landscape, including the Pentagon and Rosslyn's high-rises. If the airport is operating in a south-to-north configuration (landing on Runway 1), the right side provides a superior view of the National Harbor and the MGM Grand. Evening flights on the right side are spectacular as the lights of Northern Virginia reflect off the Potomac.

Top Activities in Washington
Route Information

Distance: 628 km (390 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 3 min

Departure: DAY (39.90240097045898, -84.21939849853516)

Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)

Route Type: Domestic

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