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DCA destination photo
MCI destination photo

DCAMCI

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior for its iconic departure views of the National Mall, the White House, and the Lincoln Memorial, followed by potential sightings of the St. Louis skyline.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏛️

National Mall & Monuments

Unmatched views of the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial during the initial climb out of DCA.

💧

Potomac River

The winding river provides a scenic border between D.C. and Virginia as the plane gains altitude.

⛰️

Shenandoah Valley

Lush green valleys and the rolling peaks of the Appalachian range visible during the first 30 minutes.

🏙️

Cincinnati Skyline

Depending on the specific air traffic control corridor, the city and its stadiums are often visible to the south.

🗼

St. Louis Gateway Arch

On clear days, the silver curve of the Arch can be spotted as the flight passes through Missouri.

Book an 'A' seat for the best departure views. Morning flights provide the best lighting for photography of D.C. monuments without sun glare. If the plane departs to the north, be ready immediately for the most iconic views.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🎖️

Arlington & Pentagon

Views of the massive five-sided military headquarters and the rolling hills of the National Cemetery.

🌲

George Washington National Forest

Expansive views of dense forest canopies and ridge lines as you head west over Virginia.

🌊

Ohio River

The massive waterway serves as a major landmark as the flight transitions from the Appalachians to the Midwest.

🏎️

Indianapolis Area

The flat, grid-like layout of central Indiana and the outskirts of the racing capital.

🌾

Missouri River Valley

The wide, meandering river and fertile farmlands as the flight descends toward Kansas City.

The right side ('F' seats) is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the horizon as you head west. During landing at MCI, this side often gets a better view of the airport layout during the final approach.

Top Activities in Kansas City
Route Information

Distance: 1,524 km (947 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 2 min

Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)

Arrival: MCI (39.2976, -94.713898)

Route Type: Domestic

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