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DCA destination photo
BTV destination photo

DCABTV

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side is the clear winner for the iconic 'River Visual' departure from DCA, offering unparalleled views of the National Mall, followed by a scenic approach over the Green Mountains.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🏛️

National Mall

A world-class view of the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and the U.S. Capitol immediately after takeoff.

🏙️

Baltimore Skyline

Distant but clear views of the Inner Harbor and the Chesapeake Bay as the plane heads northeast.

🌊

Hudson River Valley

View the winding Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains as the flight crosses into New York airspace.

⛰️

Green Mountains

Spectacular views of Vermont's spine, including the distinctive peaks of Camel's Hump and Mount Mansfield.

Select a window seat on the right for the most famous departure in American aviation. For the best photography of the Green Mountains, choose a morning flight when the sun illuminates the eastern slopes of the Vermont peaks.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏢

The Pentagon

Immediate view of the world's largest office building and Arlington National Cemetery upon takeoff.

⛰️

Appalachian Ridges

Visible throughout the mid-flight over Maryland and Pennsylvania, showing unique geological folds.

🌲

Adirondack Mountains

During the descent into Vermont, the high peaks of New York state dominate the western horizon.

🌊

Lake Champlain

Wide-angle views of the lake's broad section and the Four Brothers Islands during the final approach.

Sit on the left for evening flights to enjoy the sunset over the Adirondacks. This side is also superior if the flight arrives at BTV from the north, as it provides a direct view of the Burlington waterfront.

Top Activities in Burlington
Route Information

Distance: 703 km (437 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 10 min

Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)

Arrival: BTV (44.4719009399, -73.15329742429998)

Route Type: Domestic

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