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DCA → PHL
Which side of the plane to sit from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington) to Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this short hop, offering iconic views of the National Mall and the Pentagon immediately after takeoff from DCA, followed by a clear perspective of the Baltimore and Philadelphia skylines during the flight and descent.
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National Mall & Capitol
Unmatched views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol Building during a northbound departure.
The Pentagon
Clear overhead view of the world's largest office building shortly after lift-off from Runway 01.
Baltimore Skyline
A great view of the Inner Harbor, the Willis Tower, and the city's sports stadiums as you pass over Maryland.
Philadelphia Center City
During the final approach into PHL, the dense cluster of skyscrapers in Center City is prominently visible.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Spot the famous 'Rocky' steps and the sprawling Fairmount Park as the aircraft descends.
Sit on the left for the legendary 'River Visual' or standard northbound departure to see the DC monuments. Choose an afternoon flight to have the sun behind you for the best photos of Baltimore and Philadelphia. Since this flight is extremely short (often under 30 minutes in the air), keep your window shade up from taxi to touchdown.
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The Potomac River
Views of the winding river separating D.C. from Virginia during the initial climb.
Chesapeake Bay
Extensive views of the upper Chesapeake Bay and the various inlets of the Maryland shoreline.
Susquehanna River Bridge
A clear view of where the Susquehanna meets the bay, featuring impressive rail and road bridges.
Port of Wilmington
Industrial views of the Delaware River shipping lanes and the city of Wilmington, Delaware.
Delaware River Refineries
The complex industrial landscape and large storage tanks lining the river south of the airport.
The right side is ideal for spotting the vastness of the Chesapeake Bay. If landing towards the west at PHL, you will get a great look at the Commodore Barry Bridge. Be aware that morning flights on this side may experience significant sun glare given the northeasterly heading.
Book Hotels in PhiladelphiaDistance: 192 km (119 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 19 min
Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Arrival: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Route Type: Domestic
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