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DCA → SRQ
Which side of the plane to sit from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington) to Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (Sarasota)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point of the Atlantic coastline, offering views of the Chesapeake Bay, the Outer Banks, and the historic harbors of the Lowcountry during the journey south.
National Mall
Immediate views of the Jefferson Memorial and the Potomac River after takeoff from DCA.
Chesapeake Bay
Deep blue waters and the intricate network of inlets along the Virginia coastline.
Outer Banks
The long, narrow barrier islands of North Carolina visible as the plane traverses the coast.
Charleston Harbor
The historic South Carolina city and the iconic Ravenel Bridge spanning the Cooper River.
Sea Islands
The lush, marshy islands and winding waterways of the Georgia and South Carolina coast.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the western sun. This side is ideal for spotting the transition from the dark Atlantic waters to the brighter, shallower coastal shelves of Florida. Look for the Kennedy Space Center far in the distance as you begin your descent into the Sunshine State.
Richmond Skyline
The capital of Virginia is often visible shortly after reaching cruising altitude.
Piedmont Forests
Dense green canopies stretching across the rolling hills of the Carolinas.
Central Florida Lakes
A mosaic of thousands of freshwater lakes dotting the landscape north of Orlando.
Sunshine Skyway
The famous cable-stayed bridge over Tampa Bay is often visible during the final descent.
Gulf of Mexico
Shimmering turquoise waters visible as the aircraft maneuvers for its final approach into SRQ.
The right side is the prime choice for evening flights to witness the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. During the approach into Sarasota, keep your eyes peeled for the urban sprawl of the Tampa Bay area and the distinct white sand beaches of Anna Maria Island just before touchdown.
Distance: 1,373 km (853 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 50 min
Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Arrival: SRQ (27.39539909362793, -82.55439758300781)
Route Type: Domestic
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