Loading map...
DCA โ FAY
Which side of the plane to sit from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington) to Fayetteville Regional Grannis Field (Fayetteville)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an iconic aerial perspective of the National Mall upon departure from DCA, followed by scenic views of the Potomac River and the historic city of Richmond.
National Mall
Unparalleled views of the U.S. Capitol, Washington Monument, and Lincoln Memorial during a northbound departure or southbound approach.
Mount Vernon
Look down to see George Washingtonโs historic estate situated right along the banks of the Potomac River.
Potomac River Curves
Scenic views of the wide river bends as the flight tracks south toward the Virginia-North Carolina border.
Richmond Skyline
Clear views of Virginia's capital city and the James River winding through the urban center.
Lake Gaston
A large, sprawling reservoir on the border of VA and NC, offering beautiful blue water views amidst forest land.
Book a window seat on the left for the 'River Visual' approach or departure, which is one of the most scenic in the US. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the DC monuments and the Virginia coastline perfectly without glare.
The Pentagon
An incredible top-down view of the world's largest office building immediately after takeoff or before landing.
Arlington National Cemetery
A somber and vast view of the white headstones and the Eternal Flame area from low altitude.
Quantico
The sprawling grounds of the Marine Corps Base Quantico are clearly visible along the right side of the aircraft.
Fort Liberty (Bragg)
As you descend into Fayetteville, the massive military installation and its airfields dominate the landscape.
Carolina Pine Forests
Dense stretches of the southern pine belt that define the geography of the North Carolina Sandhills.
The right side is superior for military enthusiasts, offering a direct look at the Pentagon and Fort Liberty. On the descent into FAY, keep your eyes peeled for Pope Army Airfield's heavy transport planes parked on the tarmac. Use a polarized lens if photographing to cut through the haze typical of the humid Mid-Atlantic.
Distance: 459 km (285 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 46 min
Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Arrival: FAY (34.991199493408196, -78.88030242919922)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.