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MCI → DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Kansas City International Airport (Kansas City) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the clear winner for this route, primarily due to the spectacular 'River Visual' approach into DCA. Passengers on the left get an unparalleled view of the National Mall, including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and White House, as the plane follows the Potomac River for landing.
Mississippi River
Cross the massive Mississippi River shortly after departure, usually near the junction of Missouri and Illinois.
Indianapolis Skyline
View the 'Circle City' and its distinct radial street grid as you cruise over central Indiana.
Appalachian Ridges
Observe the unique folded mountain ridges of the northern Appalachians as you enter West Virginia and Maryland airspace.
National Mall
During the iconic River Visual approach, look out for the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol.
The White House
Capture a rare, low-altitude top-down view of the White House complex just moments before touchdown.
For the best experience, choose a seat well ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. The 'River Visual' approach into DCA Runway 19 is most common; if this is in use, the left side offers the world-famous monument views. On evening flights, the monuments are beautifully illuminated, making for an even more dramatic entry into the city.
The Ohio River
Watch the winding Ohio River serve as the natural border between the Midwestern states and the South.
Monongahela Forest
Fly over the dense, high-altitude hardwood forests of West Virginia, which are stunning during autumn foliage.
Shenandoah Valley
Spot the fertile valley nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians.
The Pentagon
As the plane banks over the Potomac, the massive five-sided headquarters of the DoD is clearly visible on the right.
Old Town Alexandria
See the historic brick-lined streets and waterfront of Alexandria, Virginia, just south of the airport.
The right side is ideal if the airport is using Runway 1 for arrivals (landing from the south), as you will then be the side facing the monuments. Throughout the flight, this side generally faces south; on midday flights, expect significant glare. It is the better side for viewing the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery during the final seconds of a standard Runway 19 approach.
Distance: 1,524 km (947 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 2 min
Departure: MCI (39.2976, -94.713898)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: Domestic
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