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DSM → DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Des Moines International Airport (Des Moines) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is significantly superior for the iconic 'River Visual' approach into DCA, offering an unobstructed view of the National Mall, the White House, and the U.S. Capitol Building.
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Iowa State Capitol
Spot the distinctive 23-karat gold leaf dome of the Iowa State Capitol shortly after takeoff from Des Moines.
Midwestern Tapestry
Vibrant green and gold geometric farm patterns across Iowa and Illinois create a beautiful agricultural quilt.
Appalachian Ridges
Dramatic, undulating ridges of the Appalachian Mountains visible as you cross West Virginia and Maryland.
D.C. Monuments
A premier view of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the White House during the final descent.
Nationals Park
Clear view of the Washington Nationals' baseball stadium just moments before the wheels touch the tarmac.
Sit on the left (Port) side and try to book a seat ahead of the wing. For the best experience, choose a flight arriving during daylight hours to see the mountain terrain, though a night arrival provides a spectacular view of the illuminated National Mall. If the plane flies the River Visual approach to Runway 19, you will have a front-row seat to the most famous landmarks in the U.S.
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Mississippi River
Aerial view of the massive Mississippi River marking the border between Iowa and Illinois.
Shenandoah Valley
Lush greenery and rolling hills of the Shenandoah Valley as the aircraft transitions into Virginia.
The Pentagon
The massive five-sided headquarters of the Department of Defense is clearly visible on the right during arrival.
Arlington Cemetery
The white marble headstones of Arlington National Cemetery are visible just before landing.
Air Force One Hangar
Glance toward Joint Base Andrews in the distance as you descend toward the Potomac.
The right side is ideal for seeing the Pentagon and the Virginia suburbs. If landing from the south (Runway 1), you may catch a glimpse of Mount Vernon. Avoid seats 15-25 on most narrow-body jets to ensure the wing does not block your view of the Potomac River. This side also avoids direct afternoon sun when flying eastbound, making for better photography without glare.
Book Hotels in WashingtonDistance: 1,441 km (895 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 55 min
Departure: DSM (41.53400039672852, -93.66310119628906)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: Domestic
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