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ORD â DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is significantly better for the legendary 'River Visual' approach into DCA, providing unparalleled views of the National Mall and U.S. Capitol.
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Lake Michigan Shoreline
Vibrant views of the southern tip of the lake and the industrial coast of Indiana shortly after takeoff.
Appalachian Ridges
Aerial perspective of the distinct, folded mountain ridges of Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
National Mall
Direct views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the Smithsonian museums during the descent.
U.S. Capitol Building
A clear, close-up look at the iconic white dome as the plane banks along the Potomac River.
The White House
Spot the presidential residence and its grounds just north of the National Mall.
Book a window seat on the left for the iconic D.C. monuments. For the best lighting, choose a late afternoon flight when the sun illuminates the buildings from the west. Note that the best views occur when the airport is landing 'South' (Runway 19), which is the most common pattern.
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Chicago Skyline
Excellent views of the Willis Tower and the dense downtown core if departing ORD to the east.
Midwestern Grid
The perfectly geometric farm plots and small towns of Indiana and Ohio.
Potomac River
Follow the winding path of the river as it carves through the landscape toward the capital.
The Pentagon
A massive, top-down view of the world's largest office building immediately before touchdown.
Arlington National Cemetery
View the solemn, white-gridded rows of headstones across the hills of Arlington.
The right side is best if you want to see the Chicago skyline during departure and the Pentagon during landing. This side is also better for viewing the sunset if you are flying in the evening, as the plane is traveling southeast.
Book Hotels in WashingtonDistance: 983 km (611 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: Domestic
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