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DCA destination photo
FAY destination photo

DCA โ†’ FAY

Our Recommendation
8.5

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
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National Mall

Unparalleled views of the U.S. Capitol, Washington Monument, and Lincoln Memorial during a northbound departure or southbound approach.

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Mount Vernon

Look down to see George Washingtonโ€™s historic estate situated right along the banks of the Potomac River.

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Potomac River Curves

Scenic views of the wide river bends as the flight tracks south toward the Virginia-North Carolina border.

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Richmond Skyline

Clear views of Virginia's capital city and the James River winding through the urban center.

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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.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
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The Pentagon

An incredible top-down view of the world's largest office building immediately after takeoff or before landing.

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Arlington National Cemetery

A somber and vast view of the white headstones and the Eternal Flame area from low altitude.

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Quantico

The sprawling grounds of the Marine Corps Base Quantico are clearly visible along the right side of the aircraft.

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Fort Liberty (Bragg)

As you descend into Fayetteville, the massive military installation and its airfields dominate the landscape.

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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.

Top Activities in Fayetteville
Route Information

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

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