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DCA → SLC
Which side of the plane to sit from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington) to Salt Lake City International Airport (Salt Lake City)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the iconic 'River Visual' departure from DCA, providing an unparalleled view of the National Mall, followed by better sun positioning for a westward flight and a dramatic approach over the Wasatch Range.
National Mall
On a north-facing departure, see the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Capitol Building in stunning detail.
Lake Erie Shoreline
Distant but clear views of the Great Lakes coastline and the industrial hubs of the Midwest.
The Great Plains
The intricate 'patchwork quilt' geometry of center-pivot irrigation circles across Nebraska.
Wasatch Mountains
Breathtakingly close views of the rugged peaks and canyons as the aircraft descends into the Salt Lake Valley.
Downtown Salt Lake City
Clear views of the Temple Square and the city grid nestled against the mountain backdrop before touchdown.
Choose the right side for the best chance to see the DC monuments during the 'River Visual' departure. Since the flight travels west, the sun will be on the left (south), meaning the right side has better lighting for photography without glare. Watch for the dramatic transition from the flat plains to the high desert mountains about 45 minutes before landing.
The Pentagon
Immediate view of the world's largest office building and the 9/11 Memorial shortly after takeoff.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The rolling, misty peaks of the Appalachian range stretching through Virginia and West Virginia.
Mississippi River
A massive geographic milestone as the plane crosses the border into the American West.
Colorado Rockies
Jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Southern Rocky Mountains visible during the final third of the flight.
Great Salt Lake South Shore
The turquoise and silver hues of the southern lake bed as you align for the final approach.
Sit on the left for views of the Pentagon on departure. During afternoon flights, this side will be in direct sunlight for most of the journey, which can lead to glare; keep your window shade partially closed until reaching the mountains for the best experience.
Distance: 2,972 km (1,847 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 58 min
Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Arrival: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)
Route Type: Domestic
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