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DCA → CAK
Which side of the plane to sit from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington) to Akron Canton Regional Airport (Akron)?
Left Side of the Plane
While both sides offer stunning views of the capital and the Appalachian mountains, the left side typically provides the most iconic views of the Pentagon upon departure and the rolling ridges of the Allegheny Mountains during the cruise.
Pentagon & Arlington
Unmatched aerial views of the world's largest office building and the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery immediately after takeoff.
Potomac River Bend
Follows the scenic curves of the Potomac River as the flight gains altitude and heads northwest into the Virginia countryside.
Appalachian Ridges
Spectacular views of the parallel ridges of the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, showing the unique geological 'fold and thrust' belt.
George Washington Forest
A vast expanse of dense green canopy that covers the mountains of West Virginia and western Virginia.
Monongahela National Forest
Deep valleys and high plateaus of the central Appalachian range, particularly beautiful during autumn foliage.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery shortly after takeoff from Runway 19. During the mid-flight, the left side offers a more direct look at the parallel ridges of the Appalachian mountain range. For morning flights, this side avoids the direct glare of the southern sun. Note that DCA departures are highly dependent on wind direction; if taking off to the north, views shift significantly.
National Mall
A bird's-eye view of the U.S. Capitol, Washington Monument, and Lincoln Memorial if the aircraft departs to the north or enters the river visual approach.
Harper's Ferry
The historic confluence where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet, cutting through the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Pittsburgh Suburbs
On clear days, the urban sprawl and outskirts of the Steel City are visible to the north as the plane crosses into Pennsylvania/Ohio.
Ohio River Crossing
The industrial and scenic landscape of the Ohio River valley as the aircraft enters the final descent phase.
Cuyahoga Valley
The lush, forested areas south of Cleveland and north of Akron visible during the descent into CAK.
Request a right-side seat for the chance to see the National Mall and the White House during 'North' operations at DCA. This side is also superior for spotting the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers at Harper's Ferry. In the afternoon, the lighting is typically better on the right side as the sun moves toward the west, illuminating the ground features below without creating harsh shadows.
Distance: 440 km (273 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 44 min
Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Arrival: CAK (40.91609954833984, -81.44219970703125)
Route Type: Domestic
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