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DCA → ISP
Which side of the plane to sit from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington) to Long Island Mac Arthur Airport (Islip)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers unparalleled views of the United States' most iconic urban landscapes, including the National Mall in D.C., the Baltimore Inner Harbor, Philadelphia, and a panoramic view of the Manhattan skyline on the horizon during the descent into Long Island.
National Mall
Unmatched aerial views of the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and the U.S. Capitol Building immediately after a northbound takeoff.
Baltimore Harbor
A clear view of the downtown Baltimore skyline and the historic Inner Harbor area as the flight tracks northeast.
Philadelphia Skyline
The cluster of skyscrapers in Center City Philadelphia and the winding Delaware River are visible to the west.
Manhattan Horizon
As the plane approaches the New York area, the entire Manhattan skyline is visible in the distance across the New Jersey coastline.
Long Island Sound
The rugged inlets and wealthy estates of the North Shore are visible as the flight maneuvers for landing at ISP.
Book a window seat forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the 'River Visual' departure from DCA, which follows the Potomac. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the DC landmarks and the New York skyline. During the fall, the foliage along the Delaware River provides a vibrant tapestry of colors.
The Pentagon
The massive, iconic headquarters of the U.S. Department of Defense is clearly visible on the right side during takeoff or landing.
Chesapeake Bay
Expansive views of the vast Chesapeake Bay and the engineering marvel of the Bay Bridge connecting Maryland's shores.
Jersey Shoreline
Continuous views of the Atlantic coastline, including the boardwalks of Atlantic City and the lighthouse at Barnegat Bay.
Fire Island
The narrow, picturesque barrier island stretching along the southern coast of Long Island during the final approach.
Great South Bay
Shallow, turquoise-tinted waters and the intricate network of salt marshes just south of Islip.
The right side is superior for sunset flights, as you can watch the sun dip below the horizon over the mainland while flying over the Atlantic coast. Use polarized sunglasses to reduce the glare from the water when viewing the Chesapeake Bay. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff to capture the unique geometric shape of the Pentagon.
Distance: 400 km (249 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 40 min
Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Arrival: ISP (40.79520035, -73.10019684)
Route Type: Domestic
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