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DCA destination photo
SAN destination photo

DCASAN

Our Recommendation
8.7

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🌊

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.4
🏛️

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.

Top Activities in San Diego
Route Information

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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