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LAN â DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Capital City Airport (Lansing) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior primarily for the approach into DCA, which often follows the Potomac River, offering world-class views of the National Mall and D.C. monuments.
Detroit Metro Area
Aerial views of the sprawling Detroit metropolitan area and the Detroit River shortly after departure.
Lake Erie Shoreline
Glance at the western basin of Lake Erie and the transition from Michigan into the Ohio coastline.
Appalachian Ridges
Linear mountain ridges and deep valleys of the Appalachian chain through Pennsylvania and Maryland.
National Mall
An unparalleled view of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol during the River Visual approach.
The White House
A rare top-down perspective of the Executive Mansion and Lafayette Square just before touchdown.
To capture the best monument photos, book a window seat on the left side (Seat A). Request a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the white marble of the monuments. The iconic 'River Visual' approach to Runway 19 is the highlight of this route; keep your camera ready as you descend past the Key Bridge.
Midwestern Grids
The geometric beauty of Michigan and Ohio farmlands creates a patchwork quilt effect from high altitude.
George Washington National Forest
Vast stretches of dense forest and wilderness areas as the flight crosses into Virginia.
The Pentagon
The massive five-sided headquarters of the Department of Defense is clearly visible on the final descent.
Arlington National Cemetery
The orderly rows of white headstones and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier can be seen near the river bank.
Dulles International Airport
On clear days, you can often spot the distinct Eero Saarinen-designed terminal of IAD in the distance.
The right side (Seat F) is excellent for viewing the Pentagon and Arlington. It is particularly scenic during late afternoon flights when the sun sets over the Virginia hills, casting long shadows across the Appalachian terrain. While you miss the main monuments, the view of the Pentagon is one of the most unique aviation sights in the country.
Distance: 770 km (478 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 17 min
Departure: LAN (42.77870178222656, -84.58740234375)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: Domestic
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