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DCA → TYS
Which side of the plane to sit from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington) to McGhee Tyson Airport (Knoxville)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers the most iconic views of the D.C. monuments immediately after takeoff and a more direct view of the Shenandoah mountain ridges during the cruise phase.
D.C. Landmarks
The Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Capitol Building are often visible during the 'River Visual' departure.
The Pentagon
A perfect top-down view of the world's largest office building shortly after lift-off.
Skyline Drive
The winding scenic road along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Shenandoah National Park.
Cherokee Lake
A massive, sprawling reservoir visible as the plane enters the Tennessee Valley for landing.
The 'River Visual' departure from DCA provides world-class views of the National Mall; sit here for the best chance to see the monuments. During autumn, this side offers spectacular views of the changing foliage over the Appalachian ridges.
Potomac River
Aerial perspective of the historic waterway as the aircraft climbs out of the capital region.
George Washington National Forest
Expansive views of the dense hardwood forests covering the Virginia highlands.
Great Smoky Mountains
Distant vistas of the mist-covered peaks along the Tennessee-North Carolina border during descent.
Choose this side for morning flights to keep the sun at your back and reduce glare. Watch for the Potomac river bends south of Alexandria about 5 minutes into the flight.
Distance: 702 km (436 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 10 min
Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Arrival: TYS (35.81100082, -83.99400329999999)
Route Type: Domestic
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