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PHL → DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is premier for this short hop, offering the iconic 'River Visual' approach into DCA which features unparalleled views of the National Mall and the Pentagon.
Philadelphia Skyline
Exceptional views of Center City skyscrapers including the Comcast Center and Liberty Place shortly after departure.
Baltimore Inner Harbor
Direct views of the Maryland Science Center, National Aquarium, and the Camden Yards sports complex.
The Pentagon
An unmatched top-down view of the world's largest office building during the final approach descent.
National Mall
The 'River Visual' approach offers clear views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol.
Potomac River
The plane follows the winding curves of the river, providing a low-altitude scenic tour of Northern Virginia.
Request the right side and aim for a seat forward of the wing. This side is legendary for the 'River Visual' landing into Runway 19 at DCA. For the best photography of the D.C. monuments, book a flight during the 'Golden Hour' just before sunset.
Port of Philadelphia
Aerial views of the massive shipping terminals and cranes along the Delaware River immediately after takeoff.
Commodore Barry Bridge
The massive cantilever bridge spanning the Delaware River between PA and NJ.
Chesapeake Bay
Distances views of the northern Chesapeake Bay and the Susquehanna River mouth.
Annapolis
Look for the Maryland State House and the U.S. Naval Academy campus on the horizon.
Sit on the left for better views of the Delaware River industry on departure. If the flight lands from the south (Runway 1), you will see the monuments across the Potomac, but they will be further away than from the right side.
Distance: 192 km (119 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 19 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: Domestic
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