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MSN → DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Dane County Regional Truax Field (Madison) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this route primarily due to the approach into DCA. When performing the 'River Visual' approach into Runway 19, passengers on the left side are treated to a world-class view of the National Mall, including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol.
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Lake Mendota
Immediately after takeoff from MSN, enjoy views of Madison's largest lake and the Isthmus area.
Chicago Horizon
On clear days, see the distant Chicago skyline across the southern tip of Lake Michigan.
Allegheny Mountains
Dense forest canopies and ridge-and-valley formations as you cross into West Virginia and Maryland.
The National Mall
Low-altitude views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol during the final descent.
Nationals Park
A bird's-eye view of the Washington Nationals' baseball stadium just seconds before touchdown.
Book a window seat on the left for the iconic 'River Visual' approach. For the best lighting on the monuments during landing, choose a late afternoon or early evening flight when the sun is setting to the west, illuminating the white marble of the DC landmarks.
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Lake Michigan
Expansive views of the blue water while crossing from the Wisconsin shore toward Michigan.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The hazy, rolling peaks of the Shenandoah region visible during the descent into the DC basin.
Arlington National Cemetery
The white headstones of the hallowed grounds are visible as the plane follows the Potomac River.
The Pentagon
An incredible top-down view of the massive five-sided Department of Defense headquarters.
Potomac Riverfront
Views of the Georgetown waterfront and the Key Bridge as the plane aligns with the runway.
The right side offers a direct look at the Pentagon and Arlington Cemetery. If the flight arrives from the south (Runway 1 landing), the right side provides a better view of the Alexandria historic district and the George Washington Masonic National Memorial.
Book Hotels in WashingtonDistance: 1,136 km (706 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 31 min
Departure: MSN (43.13990020751953, -89.3375015258789)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: Domestic
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