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ISP → DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Long Island Mac Arthur Airport (Islip) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the iconic 'River Visual' approach into DCA, providing unparalleled views of the National Mall, the White House, and the Pentagon just moments before landing.
Manhattan Skyline
Shortly after takeoff, look west to see the distant skyscrapers of New York City and the Freedom Tower.
Philadelphia Skyline
Pass west of the City of Brotherly Love, with clear views of the Center City skyscrapers and the Schuylkill River.
Baltimore Inner Harbor
Excellent bird's-eye view of the historic waterfront, Oriole Park at Camden Yards, and the downtown core.
The National Mall
The peak highlight: see the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the White House while banking over the Potomac.
The Pentagon
Get an incredible top-down view of the world's largest office building just seconds before touchdown.
The right side is essential for the famous 'River Visual' approach into DCA Runway 19. For the best lighting on the white marble monuments, choose a late afternoon flight when the sun is in the west. Ensure you have your camera ready as the monument pass happens very quickly at low altitude.
Fire Island National Seashore
Immediately after departure from ISP, view the thin barrier islands and the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean.
Delaware Bay
A vast view of the estuary where the Delaware River meets the Atlantic, often showing intricate sediment patterns.
Chesapeake Bay Bridge
Cross over the massive bridge span connecting Maryland's eastern and western shores near Annapolis.
U.S. Capitol Building
On the final descent, catch a glimpse of the Capitol dome and the eastern end of the National Mall.
Sit on the left for coastal views during the initial climb and to see the sunrise over the Atlantic on early morning flights. While you miss the primary monuments on the River Visual approach, you get a better view of the Anacostia River and the Navy Yard area.
Distance: 400 km (249 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 40 min
Departure: ISP (40.79520035, -73.10019684)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: Domestic
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