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DCA → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior experience, featuring world-class aerial views of the National Mall in DC upon takeoff and the Detroit city skyline and international border during the approach to DTW.
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The National Mall
Unmatched views of the U.S. Capitol, Washington Monument, and Lincoln Memorial during the iconic 'River Visual' departure.
Laurel Highlands
Rugged terrain and deep valleys of southwestern Pennsylvania, often draped in mist or vibrant fall colors.
Detroit River
The busy international waterway separating the United States and Canada, featuring heavy shipping traffic.
Downtown Detroit
Exceptional views of the Renaissance Center, Ford Field, and Comerica Park during the final approach into DTW.
Ambassador Bridge
The massive suspension bridge connecting Detroit to Windsor, Ontario, clearly visible from your window.
The right side is the 'money seat' for DC departures. If the plane takes off to the North, you will fly directly past the monuments. On arrival in Detroit, the right side usually provides the best angle for the downtown skyline and the Ambassador Bridge. For night flights, the DC monuments are beautifully illuminated, making the right side even more spectacular.
Book Hotels in DetroitPentagon & Arlington
Visible immediately after takeoff from DCA, offering a clear view of the world's largest office building and the national cemetery.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Scenic views of the forested ridges of the Appalachian chain as the flight crosses into West Virginia and Maryland.
Cedar Point
On a clear day during the descent, look for the towering roller coasters of the famous amusement park on the Lake Erie shoreline.
Ohio Farmland
A patchwork of agricultural fields and small towns across the Midwest landscape as you approach the Michigan border.
Sit on the left if you prefer seeing the Pentagon on departure. During evening flights, this side catches the sunset over the Appalachian Mountains. For the best view of the Lake Erie shoreline, keep your window shade up as soon as the descent begins near Toledo.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 651 km (405 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 5 min
Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
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