Loading map...

DCA destination photo
CVG destination photo

DCA → CVG

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior primarily for the iconic departure from DCA, offering unparalleled views of the National Mall, the Pentagon, and the Potomac River before transitioning to the scenic Appalachian Mountains.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏛ïļ

National Mall

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

ðŸĒ

The Pentagon

The world's largest office building is clearly visible as the plane banks over the Potomac River.

⛰ïļ

Blue Ridge Mountains

Aerial perspective of the rolling green ridges of Shenandoah National Park and the Virginia highlands.

ðŸŒē

Monongahela Forest

Dense, rugged forest canopies and deep river valleys of eastern West Virginia.

🌊

The Ohio River

Dramatic views of the winding Ohio River as the flight enters the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky airspace.

Book a window seat forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the DC skyline. For the best photography of the monuments, choose a morning flight when the sun illuminates the white marble structures from the east. During autumn, the foliage over the Appalachian ridges is spectacular.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
ðŸŠĶ

Arlington Cemetery

The white headstones and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier are visible shortly after departure.

✈ïļ

Dulles International

Often visible in the distance to the north, showcasing its unique terminal architecture.

🏙ïļ

Downtown Cincinnati

If approaching CVG from the north, you can see the Great American Ball Park and the city skyline.

🌉

Roebling Bridge

The historic suspension bridge connecting Ohio and Kentucky is visible during the final descent.

Sit on the right for beautiful sunset views if flying in the late afternoon or evening. This side is also better for spotting the downtown Cincinnati skyline if the airport is landing to the south. Keep an eye out for the distinct mountain topography of West Virginia's panhandle.

Top Activities in Cincinnati
Route Information

Distance: 660 km (410 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 6 min

Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)

Arrival: CVG (39.0488014221, -84.6678009033)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.