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IAH → DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is legendary for the arrival into DCA, offering a front-row seat to the National Mall, including the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, during the 'River Visual' approach.
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Houston Skyline
Excellent views of downtown Houston's skyscrapers shortly after departure from IAH.
Appalachian Ridges
Observation of the long, folded mountain ridges stretching through Tennessee and Virginia.
Shenandoah Valley
The lush, rolling landscape between the Blue Ridge and the Allegheny Mountains.
National Mall
Direct views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and U.S. Capitol during the final descent.
The White House
A clear, bird's-eye view of the executive mansion and surrounding Lafayette Square.
Book a window seat on the left for the best chance to see the 'River Visual' approach. This occurs when planes land from the north (Runway 19), following the Potomac River. For the best lighting on D.C. landmarks, choose a morning or midday flight to keep the sun behind you.
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Mississippi River
Aerial crossing of the massive, winding river system near the Tennessee border.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Stunning views of the hazy, blue-tinted peaks of the eastern Appalachian range.
The Pentagon
A massive perspective of the world's largest office building just seconds before touchdown.
Old Town Alexandria
The historic grid and waterfront of one of America's oldest colonial-era ports.
Potomac River
Broad views of the tidal basin and the Maryland shoreline to the east.
The right side is ideal if the airport is landing from the south (Runway 1), as you will see the Pentagon and Alexandria. However, since north-to-south landings are more common, the right side is generally the 'safety' choice for seeing the Pentagon but misses the iconic D.C. monuments.
Book Hotels in WashingtonDistance: 1,942 km (1,207 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 35 min
Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: Domestic
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