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DCA → BGR
Which side of the plane to sit from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington) to Bangor International Airport (Bangor)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular tour of the Eastern Seaboard, featuring major metropolitan skylines and the dramatic transition from the Mid-Atlantic coast to the rugged Maine shoreline.
Chesapeake Bay
Expansive views of the massive estuary, including the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and various coastal islands.
Manhattan Skyline
A high-altitude perspective of the New York City skyscrapers, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.
Boston Harbor
The intricate shoreline of Boston, including Logan Airport and the historic harbor district.
Cape Cod Hook
The distinctive curved shape of the Cape stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean.
Portland Harbor
The transition into Maine territory, featuring Casco Bay and the iconic Portland Head Light.
The right side is the premier choice for coastal scenery. For the best lighting on the New York and Boston skylines, choose an afternoon flight when the sun is to the west. Watch for the dramatic change from sandy Mid-Atlantic beaches to the rocky, jagged Maine coast during the final 30 minutes of the flight.
National Mall
Immediate views of the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and the Capitol Building if departing North.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The rolling, hazy peaks of the Appalachian range visible on the western horizon.
Hudson Highlands
Dense forest and rugged terrain north of New York City, particularly beautiful during peak autumn.
White Mountains
In the distance, the high peaks of New Hampshire, including Mount Washington, may be visible on clear days.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare and enjoy the soft light hitting the Appalachian foothills. Keep your camera ready immediately after takeoff for a bird's-eye view of the Pentagon and D.C. landmarks.
Distance: 948 km (589 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Arrival: BGR (44.80739974975586, -68.82810211181639)
Route Type: Domestic
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