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DCA → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Left Side of the Plane
While the right side provides a legendary view of the DC monuments at takeoff, the left side offers superior views of the Grand Canyon and the iconic harbor/skyline approach into San Diego.
Potomac River
Scenic views of the river and Alexandria shortly after departure from Reagan National.
Appalachian Ridges
The rolling green ridges of West Virginia and Kentucky provide a textured landscape early in the flight.
The Grand Canyon
High-altitude views of the South Rim and the sprawling desert erosion patterns of Northern Arizona.
Salton Sea
The massive, shimmering saline lake in the California desert is often visible shortly before descent.
San Diego Harbor
Incredible views of the USS Midway, the Star of India, and the Coronado Bridge during the final seconds of flight.
Downtown San Diego
A close-up look at the skyscrapers of the city center as the aircraft descends for its urban landing.
Sit on the left for the most dramatic landing experience in the U.S. As the plane descends into SAN, you will feel like you are flying between the skyscrapers of downtown. For the best lighting, a mid-to-late afternoon flight makes the Arizona desert glow in deep oranges and reds.
The National Mall
An unbeatable view of the U.S. Capitol, Washington Monument, and Lincoln Memorial if departing north.
St. Louis Arch
Visible as a small silver glint on the banks of the Mississippi River if the flight path is southerly.
Colorado Rockies
Snow-capped peaks of the Southern Rockies are visible to the north when crossing the mid-continental divide.
Lake Powell
The bright blue waters and winding canyons of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
Balboa Park
During the final approach, you will look down onto the San Diego Zoo and the California Tower.
The right side is essential if you want the 'Postcard' view of Washington D.C. immediately after takeoff. Ensure you are on the right side if the plane is using the 'River Visual' or standard northern departure. In San Diego, you'll skim just a few hundred feet above the rooftops of the Hillcrest neighborhood.
Distance: 3,655 km (2,271 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 18 min
Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: Domestic
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