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MCO → DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Orlando International Airport (Orlando) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the clear winner for its legendary view of the National Mall and U.S. monuments during the 'River Visual' approach into DCA, alongside views of Orlando's theme parks upon departure.
Orlando Theme Parks
Aerial views of Walt Disney World and Universal Studios shortly after takeoff from MCO.
Piedmont Plateau
Rolling hills and dense deciduous forests of the Carolinas and Southern Virginia.
Potomac River
The winding river acts as a guide for the final descent into the D.C. area.
National Mall
Unparalleled views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol Building.
The Pentagon
A direct overhead view of the world's largest office building just seconds before touchdown.
For the best experience, book a window seat in front of or well behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the D.C. skyline. The most iconic views occur when the aircraft is landing to the south on Runway 19; this 'River Visual' approach is weather-dependent but common. Afternoon flights provide the best lighting for photography of the monuments.
Kennedy Space Center
Distant views of launch pads and the Vehicle Assembly Building along the Atlantic coast.
Outer Banks
The thin ribbon of barrier islands and the Atlantic Ocean stretches along the North Carolina coast.
Chesapeake Bay
Views of the massive estuary and the many inlets leading toward the Maryland shoreline.
National Harbor
The Capital Wheel and the MGM casino complex visible during the final banking maneuvers.
Old Town Alexandria
The historic street grid and waterfront of one of America's oldest colonial towns.
Choose the right side if you are flying in the early morning to catch a spectacular sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. This side also offers superior views of the Virginia coastline and the sprawling Chesapeake Bay. During a northward landing (Runway 1), you will see the bustling waterfront of National Harbor and Alexandria shortly before landing.
Distance: 1,224 km (761 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min
Departure: MCO (28.429399490356445, -81.30899810791016)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: Domestic
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