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HPN destination photo
DCA destination photo

HPNDCA

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a legendary view of the National Mall and the U.S. Capitol during the iconic 'River Visual' approach into DCA, alongside views of the Atlantic coastline during cruise.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🏙️

Manhattan Skyline

Dramatic views of the East Side, Central Park, and the Empire State Building shortly after departing Westchester.

🌊

Jersey Shoreline

The transition from the New York Harbor to the sandy barrier islands of the New Jersey coast.

⚓

Delaware Bay

The massive estuary where the Delaware River opens into the Atlantic Ocean.

🏛️

The National Mall

Unobstructed views of the U.S. Capitol, the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial on the final approach.

🏟️

Nationals Park

A bird's-eye view of the baseball stadium and the rapidly developing Navy Yard district.

Sit on the left for the most famous landing in American aviation. When the aircraft follows the Potomac River for Runway 19, the monuments appear directly out your window. For late afternoon flights, the sun will be behind you, lighting up the DC skyline perfectly.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏞️

Hudson River Valley

Aerial views of the Tappan Zee Bridge and the lush greenery of the lower Hudson Valley upon takeoff.

🏙️

Philadelphia Center City

A clear view of the skyscrapers and the historic grid layout of downtown Philadelphia.

⛵

Baltimore Inner Harbor

Spot the iconic waterfront, Camden Yards, and the M&T Bank Stadium as you pass Maryland.

🎖️

The Pentagon

A direct overhead look at the massive five-sided headquarters of the Department of Defense just seconds before landing.

🌳

Arlington National Cemetery

The meticulously ordered white headstones and the Air Force Memorial visible during the final descent.

The right side is superior for city enthusiasts wanting to see the urban cores of Philadelphia and Baltimore. It also offers the best view of the Pentagon and Arlington. Morning flights are best for this side to avoid the harsh glare of the rising sun over the Atlantic.

Top Activities in Washington
Route Information

Distance: 376 km (234 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 38 min

Departure: HPN (41.06700134277344, -73.70760345458984)

Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)

Route Type: Domestic

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