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JAN destination photo
DCA destination photo

JAN → DCA

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is highly recommended for the iconic 'River Visual' approach into DCA, which offers a stunning panorama of the National Mall and D.C. monuments just seconds before landing.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
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Birmingham Metro

Catch views of the urban center and Sloss Furnaces as you cross central Alabama.

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Tennessee River Valley

Spot the wide, winding waters of the Tennessee River cutting through the southern landscape.

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Great Smoky Mountains

See the blue-tinged ridges and deep valleys of the highest peaks in the Appalachian range.

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Shenandoah Valley

A beautiful stretch of agricultural land nestled between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains.

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The National Mall

Unrivaled views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and U.S. Capitol during the final descent.

For the best experience, book a window seat on the left to witness the 'River Visual' approach into DCA. This typically happens when winds are from the south, allowing the plane to follow the Potomac River directly past the monuments. Late afternoon flights provide dramatic lighting over the Appalachian ridges.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
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Talladega National Forest

Fly over the southern tip of the Appalachian Mountains covered in dense pine forests.

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Blue Ridge Mountains

Observe the eastern edge of the mountain range as it transitions into the Virginia Piedmont.

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Smith Mountain Lake

A massive, multi-fingered reservoir in Virginia that is easily identifiable from cruising altitude.

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The Pentagon

An incredible overhead view of the massive five-sided headquarters of the Department of Defense.

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Arlington National Cemetery

A poignant view of the white marble headstones and the Rolling Thunder hills just before touchdown.

The right side is excellent for seeing the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery on final approach to Runway 19. If you are on an early morning flight, this side will also enjoy the sunrise as you travel northeast toward the capital.

Top Activities in Washington
Route Information

Distance: 1,383 km (859 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 51 min

Departure: JAN (32.3111991882, -90.0758972168)

Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)

Route Type: Domestic

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