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DCA â RDU
Which side of the plane to sit from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington) to Raleigh Durham International Airport (Raleigh-durham)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side provides an iconic view of the National Mall and the Potomac River, especially during the banked turns typical of DCA departures.
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National Mall
Stunning aerial view of the Capitol and Washington Monument during the initial climb out of DCA.
Potomac River
Follows the winding blue curves of the river separating Virginia and Maryland during the first leg.
Old Town Alexandria
Clear view of the historic cobblestone streets and bustling waterfront of this Virginia city.
Quantico
Look for the massive Marine Corps Base and the distinct architecture of the National Museum of the Marine Corps.
Falls Lake
A large reservoir visible north of Raleigh just before the final descent into RDU.
Sit on the left for the best chance of seeing the National Mall if the plane departs towards the north. Morning flights provide excellent lighting on the D.C. skyline. Keep your camera ready immediately after wheels-up, as the flight is very short and the best views occur in the first 5 minutes.
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The Pentagon
Immediate view of the massive five-sided Department of Defense headquarters shortly after takeoff.
Arlington Cemetery
The vast green expanse and white markers are visible just after the plane leaves the runway.
Mount Vernon
George Washington's historic estate is visible nestled on the banks of the Potomac further south.
Virginia Piedmont
Rolling hills and dense forests characteristic of the central Virginia landscape during the cruise phase.
Research Triangle Park
Aerial view of the massive tech and research hub located between Durham and Raleigh near the airport.
The right side is ideal for viewing the Pentagon and Arlington. On a clear day, you may see the distant silhouette of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the far west. Late afternoon flights offer the best lighting for the Virginia countryside.
Book Hotels in Raleigh-durhamDistance: 365 km (227 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 37 min
Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Arrival: RDU (35.877601623535156, -78.7874984741211)
Route Type: Domestic
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