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MEM â DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Memphis International Airport (Memphis) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the premier view of the United States' capital, specifically the National Mall and its iconic monuments, during the famous River Visual approach into DCA.
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Mississippi River
Bird's-eye view of the massive river and its winding oxbows immediately after departure from Memphis.
Nashville Skyline
Clear views of the 'Music City' skyline as the flight path typically passes just north of the city.
Appalachian Ridges
Dramatic views of the folded mountain ridges in West Virginia and northern Virginia.
Shenandoah Valley
The lush agricultural valley tucked between the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains.
The National Mall
Unbeatable views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and U.S. Capitol during the final descent.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the D.C. monuments. When landing on Runway 19 (the most common northern approach), the plane follows the Potomac River, placing the National Mall directly outside the left windows. Choose a morning flight to have the sun behind you for better photography of the capital.
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Pickwick Lake
Crossing the Tennessee River near the border where Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi meet.
Great Smoky Mountains
Distant views of the hazy, blue peaks of the highest mountains in the eastern United States.
The Pentagon
An exceptionally close and clear view of the massive five-sided headquarters of the Department of Defense.
Arlington National Cemetery
The meticulously arranged white headstones of the national cemetery are visible seconds before touchdown.
The right side is ideal for seeing the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery. During the landing phase, keep your camera ready as these landmarks appear very quickly and at low altitude. If the wind is from the south and you land on Runway 1, you may see Mount Vernon to the right.
Book Hotels in WashingtonDistance: 1,224 km (761 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min
Departure: MEM (35.04240036010742, -89.97669982910156)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: Domestic
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