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DCA destination photo
AUS destination photo

DCAAUS

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the most iconic views of the National Mall upon departure from DCA and a superior perspective of the Mississippi River and the lush Texas Hill Country during the descent into Austin.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏛️

The National Mall

Unparalleled views of the U.S. Capitol, Washington Monument, and Lincoln Memorial immediately after takeoff.

🏞️

Shenandoah National Park

The rolling peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the verdant Shenandoah Valley stretch across the horizon.

🌊

Mississippi River

A dramatic crossing of the continent's largest river system, often seen near Memphis.

🚜

Arkansas Delta

Geometric patterns of vast agricultural fields create a distinct patchwork quilt appearance.

🏙️

Austin Skyline

During the southern approach, catch the Frost Bank Tower and the growing downtown skyline.

Sit on the left for the legendary 'River Visual' departure, which follows the Potomac. On afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, so bring sunglasses or lower the shade for mid-flight glare. Look out for the Mississippi River roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes into the journey.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🛡️

The Pentagon

An aerial perspective of the massive five-sided headquarters shortly after lifting off from DCA.

⛰️

Allegheny Mountains

Rugged, forested ridges and deep valleys characteristic of the West Virginia and Kentucky landscape.

🎸

Nashville Basin

Distant views of the Tennessee capital and the winding Cumberland River snaking through the hills.

🌲

The Ozarks

Ancient, eroded plateaus and dense forest canopies covering Northern Arkansas.

🏟️

DFW Metroplex

Frequent sightings of the sprawling Dallas-Fort Worth urban area as you cross into Texas air space.

The right side is best for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. It provides an excellent view of the Pentagon on southbound departures. Keep an eye out for the distinctive circular irrigation patterns as you enter the more arid regions of East Texas.

Top Activities in Austin
Route Information

Distance: 2,114 km (1,314 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 49 min

Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)

Arrival: AUS (30.194499969482425, -97.6698989868164)

Route Type: Domestic

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