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JAN â DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (Jackson) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
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.
Birmingham Metro
Catch views of the urban center and Sloss Furnaces as you cross central Alabama.
Tennessee River Valley
Spot the wide, winding waters of the Tennessee River cutting through the southern landscape.
Great Smoky Mountains
See the blue-tinged ridges and deep valleys of the highest peaks in the Appalachian range.
Shenandoah Valley
A beautiful stretch of agricultural land nestled between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains.
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.
Talladega National Forest
Fly over the southern tip of the Appalachian Mountains covered in dense pine forests.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Observe the eastern edge of the mountain range as it transitions into the Virginia Piedmont.
Smith Mountain Lake
A massive, multi-fingered reservoir in Virginia that is easily identifiable from cruising altitude.
The Pentagon
An incredible overhead view of the massive five-sided headquarters of the Department of Defense.
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.
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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