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FAY β DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Fayetteville Regional Grannis Field (Fayetteville) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this northbound route as it offers the iconic view of the Pentagon and the Lincoln Memorial during the final descent into DCA, especially during the famous 'River Visual' approach.
North Carolina Sandhills
View the transition from the pine forests of Fayetteville into the rolling hills of the NC Piedmont.
Richmond Skyline
Catch a glimpse of the Virginia State Capitol and the downtown skyline along the James River.
The Pentagon
An unparalleled bird's-eye view of the world's largest office building just seconds before touchdown.
Lincoln Memorial
During the final approach, see the iconic white marble monument and the Reflecting Pool.
Arlington National Cemetery
The neatly aligned white headstones are clearly visible on the hillsides adjacent to the airport.
Sit on the left (Seat A) for the best chance to see the Pentagon. If the plane is landing from the north (Runway 19), you will see the DC monuments during the final banking turn. Morning flights offer the best lighting on the Virginia side without the afternoon glare from the west.
Chesapeake Bay Horizon
On clear days, see the distant shimmer of the Chesapeake Bay to the east.
Old Town Alexandria
A perfect view of the historic waterfront, King Street, and the Torpedo Factory Art Center.
The US Capitol
The iconic dome and the National Mall are prominently visible to the east when approaching from the south.
National Harbor
Spot the Capital Wheel and the MGM casino across the Potomac River in Maryland.
Potomac River Path
Follow the winding path of the river as it widens toward the south of the district.
Choose the right side (Seat F) if you want to see the US Capitol and the National Mall. This side is particularly scenic during a 'Straight-In' approach to Runway 1. Late afternoon flights provide excellent 'golden hour' lighting on the DC monuments to the east.
Distance: 459 km (285 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 46 min
Departure: FAY (34.991199493408196, -78.88030242919922)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: Domestic
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