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DCA → MKE
Which side of the plane to sit from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington) to General Mitchell International Airport (Milwaukee)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior for this route, providing iconic views of the U.S. Capitol and National Mall upon departure from DCA, followed by a scenic crossing of Lake Michigan into Milwaukee.
National Mall
Unparalleled views of the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and the U.S. Capitol building shortly after takeoff.
Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians
Distinct geological folds and long mountain ridges stretching through Pennsylvania.
Lake Erie Coastline
The southern shore of Lake Erie near Cleveland is often visible to the north in the distance.
Lake Michigan
The vast blue expanse of the lake as the aircraft crosses from the Michigan shoreline toward Wisconsin.
Milwaukee Lakefront
The Milwaukee Art Museum and downtown skyline appear clearly as you approach MKE from over the water.
Request a right-side seat to maximize chances of seeing the 'River Visual' departure landmarks. For the best photography of the Milwaukee skyline, afternoon flights provide the most favorable lighting on the city's east-facing lakefront architecture.
The Pentagon
Immediate view of the world's largest office building and Arlington National Cemetery during departure.
Appalachian Forests
Dense green canopy and rolling terrain of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.
Midwestern Farmland
Vibrant green and gold geometric patterns across the rural landscapes of Ohio and Indiana.
Chicago Silhouette
On clear days, the distant skyscrapers of Chicago may be visible to the south when crossing Lake Michigan.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harshest sun glare. This side also provides the best perspective of the Pentagon and the southern curvature of the Lake Michigan shoreline during the final approach.
Distance: 1,019 km (633 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min
Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Arrival: MKE (42.94720077514648, -87.89659881591797)
Route Type: Domestic
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