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DCA → ILM
Which side of the plane to sit from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington) to Wilmington International Airport (Wilmington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides superior views of the Chesapeake Bay and the picturesque North Carolina coastline during the approach into Wilmington.
Search flights from DCA to ILM
National Mall
Iconic views of the Capitol and monuments shortly after departing DCA.
Chesapeake Bay
Wide vistas of the tidal estuary and the Eastern Shore peninsula to the east.
Great Dismal Swamp
A massive marshy wilderness straddling the Virginia and North Carolina border.
Barrier Islands
Stunning aerial views of the Atlantic coast and Wrightsville Beach area.
Masonboro Inlet
Complex tidal marshes and blue waters just before landing.
Choose the left side for morning flights to see the sunrise over the water. This side is also best for viewing the DC monuments on a northbound departure or the Atlantic shoreline on approach. Watch for the transition from the Potomac River to the Chesapeake Bay.
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The Pentagon
Clear view of the world's largest office building immediately after takeoff.
Richmond Skyline
View of the Virginia state capital located along the James River.
Piedmont Forests
Dense green canopies of the interior coastal plain of Virginia and NC.
Cape Fear River
The major waterway leading into Wilmington, visible during the final descent.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the sun's glare. It offers an excellent view of the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery during a southbound takeoff. Keep an eye out for the James River crossing near Richmond.
Book Hotels in WilmingtonDistance: 515 km (320 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 52 min
Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Arrival: ILM (34.27059936523437, -77.90260314941406)
Route Type: Domestic
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