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MCI destination photo
DCA destination photo

MCIDCA

Our Recommendation
9.2

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.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🌊

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.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🛶

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.

Top Activities in Washington
Route Information

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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