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EWR destination photo
DCA destination photo

EWR → DCA

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a world-class view of the United States Capitol and the National Mall landmarks during the famous 'River Visual' approach into DCA.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
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Manhattan Skyline

Shortly after takeoff from EWR, look back to see the skyscrapers of Lower Manhattan and the Freedom Tower.

🌊

Chesapeake Bay

Aerial views of the northern reaches of the bay and the intricate Maryland coastline.

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US Capitol Building

An unobstructed view of the iconic white dome as the plane aligns with the Potomac River.

🗞

National Mall

A panoramic sweep of the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and the Smithsonian museums.

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RFK Stadium

The historic stadium and the Anacostia River waterfront visible during the final descent.

Book a window seat on the left (A or B) to ensure a view of the monuments. Most flights use the 'River Visual' approach into Runway 19; for this, the left side is essential. Sunset flights are spectacular as the monuments are often illuminated against the twilight sky.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🔔

Philadelphia Skyline

On clear days, the skyscrapers of Center City Philadelphia are visible to the west mid-flight.

⚓

Baltimore Inner Harbor

Look for the distinct waterfront and the downtown skyline of Baltimore as you head south.

ðŸ›Ąïļ

The Pentagon

The massive five-sided headquarters is clearly visible just seconds before touchdown.

ðŸŠĶ

Arlington Cemetery

The white rows of headstones and the rolling hills of the national cemetery are prominent.

🌉

Key Bridge

The beautiful stone arch bridge crossing the Potomac between Georgetown and Rosslyn.

The right side is superior for seeing the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery during landing. If the wind requires a landing from the south (Runway 1), the right side offers views of the Alexandria waterfront. Mid-day flights provide the best lighting for the Virginia side of the river.

Top Activities in Washington
Route Information

Distance: 319 km (198 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 32 min

Departure: EWR (40.69250106811523, -74.168701171875)

Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)

Route Type: Domestic

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