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LAS destination photo
DCA destination photo

LASDCA

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

While both sides offer stunning desert and mountain vistas, the left side is the clear winner for the iconic 'River Visual' approach into DCA, providing unparalleled views of the National Mall and D.C. monuments.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🏜️

Lake Mead & Virgin River

Witness the deep blue waters of the reservoir contrasted against the vibrant red rock formations of the Mojave Desert.

🏔️

Colorado Rockies

Fly over the majestic, snow-capped peaks of the central Rocky Mountains, offering dramatic topographical views.

🏙️

The Gateway Arch

As you cross the Mississippi River near St. Louis, look for the gleaming silver curve of the Arch on the riverfront.

🏛️

National Mall

During the final descent into DCA, enjoy a front-row seat to the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol.

🏠

The White House

Get a rare, low-altitude glimpse of the Executive Mansion just before the aircraft banks to line up with the runway.

To maximize your chances of seeing the D.C. monuments, check the wind forecast; the 'River Visual' approach usually happens when planes land to the south (Runway 19). For morning flights, the left side is shielded from direct southern sun, making for better photography of the terrain without glare.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏗️

Hoover Dam

Immediately after takeoff from LAS, look down to see this engineering marvel and the Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge.

🏜️

Grand Canyon North Rim

Depending on the flight path, you may see the northern stretches of the canyon's immense, multi-colored depths.

⛰️

Appalachian Ridges

As you descend toward the East Coast, the rolling green ridges of the Blue Ridge Mountains dominate the horizon.

🛡️

The Pentagon

On approach to DCA, the right side offers an incredible overhead view of the world's largest office building and Arlington National Cemetery.

Sit on the right for the best views of the Hoover Dam during the climb out of Las Vegas. Note that this side will face the sun for most of the eastbound journey, so keep your window shade partially closed to avoid heat and glare until you reach the scenic Appalachian descent.

Top Activities in Washington
Route Information

Distance: 3,354 km (2,084 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 57 min

Departure: LAS (36.08010101, -115.1520004)

Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)

Route Type: Domestic

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