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DCA destination photo
PNS destination photo

DCAPNS

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side is preferred for the iconic views of the Pentagon and Arlington Cemetery during takeoff, followed by the scenic ridges of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a clear view of Mobile Bay upon arrival.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🛡️

The Pentagon

Provides an unparalleled overhead view of the iconic five-sided headquarters immediately after lifting off from DCA.

⛰️

Blue Ridge Mountains

Offers a spectacular look at the Shenandoah Valley and the rolling peaks of the Appalachian range during the initial cruise phase.

🏗️

Birmingham Industrial Belt

Pass over the historic steel city of Birmingham, Alabama, identifiable by its distinct industrial layout and hilly terrain.

🌊

Mobile Bay

As the flight prepares for landing, enjoy views of the vast Mobile Bay and the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park in the distance.

The right side is essential for the best 'River Visual' departure views. For sunset flights, this side offers dramatic orange and purple hues over the Appalachian mountains and the Alabama river systems.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🎡

National Harbor

Look for the Capital Wheel and the expansive National Harbor complex along the Potomac River shoreline shortly after takeoff.

🏙️

Charlotte Skyline

On a clear day, the skyscraper cluster of downtown Charlotte is often visible to the south as you cruise over the Carolinas.

🍑

Atlanta Metro

View the massive suburban sprawl of northern Georgia and the distant silhouette of the Atlanta skyline.

🏝️

Emerald Coast Beaches

Enjoy the contrast of white quartz sand and emerald waters of the Gulf Islands National Seashore during the final descent.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the southern sun. This side is also optimal for viewing the long stretches of barrier islands as the aircraft turns to align with the Pensacola runways.

Top Activities in Pensacola
Route Information

Distance: 1,313 km (816 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 45 min

Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)

Arrival: PNS (30.473400115967003, -87.18659973144501)

Route Type: Domestic

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