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DTW destination photo
DCA destination photo

DTW → DCA

Our Recommendation
9.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is iconic for the 'River Visual' approach into DCA, offering an unparalleled view of the National Mall and the federal monuments of Washington, D.C.

Right Side Highlights
9.5
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Detroit River

Excellent views of the Ambassador Bridge and the international border between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario.

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Appalachian Ridges

Geometric patterns of the long, parallel ridges and valleys characteristic of the mid-Atlantic mountains.

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The National Mall

Unobstructed views of the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and the U.S. Capitol Building.

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The White House

A rare vertical perspective of the Executive Mansion and the surrounding Ellipse park.

ðŸšĢ

Potomac River

A dramatic low-altitude flight following the winding path of the river toward the runway.

This is one of the most scenic approaches in the US. Sit on the right and hope for the 'River Visual' approach to Runway 19. For the best lighting on the monuments, afternoon flights provide better sun angles. Be ready with your camera as soon as the plane crosses over Theodore Roosevelt Island.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Lake Erie Shoreline

Aerial views of the western basin of Lake Erie and the industrial coastline of northern Ohio.

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Cleveland Skyline

A clear view of the downtown Cleveland area and Progressive Field if the flight path stays north.

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Allegheny Mountains

Dense forest canopies and ridge lines of the Appalachian range in Pennsylvania.

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The Pentagon

Direct view of the world's largest office building and the 9/11 Memorial during the final descent.

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Arlington Cemetery

The meticulously arranged white headstones and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier are visible just before touchdown.

Choose the left side if you want a bird's-eye view of the Pentagon. On a night flight, the illuminated suburban sprawl of Northern Virginia is quite striking. If the plane lands from the south on Runway 1, the left side looks out over the bustling Alexandria waterfront.

Top Activities in Washington
Route Information

Distance: 651 km (405 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 5 min

Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)

Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)

Route Type: Domestic

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