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PHX → DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most iconic views, including a scenic departure over the Phoenix skyline and the world-famous 'River Visual' approach into DCA, which provides a front-row seat to the National Mall.
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Phoenix Skyline
Clear views of Downtown Phoenix and the distinct silhouette of Camelback Mountain immediately after takeoff.
Painted Desert
Vibrant, multi-colored badlands and plateaus stretching across Northern Arizona.
Mississippi River
A majestic crossing of North America's largest river system near the middle of the flight.
Appalachian Ridges
The unique parallel ridge-and-valley formations of West Virginia and Western Virginia.
National Mall
Unrivaled views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and U.S. Capitol during the River Visual approach.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the DC monuments. This side is most advantageous when landing on Runway 19, as the plane follows the Potomac River southward. For departures, the morning light illuminates the desert landscape beautifully without causing glare on your window. Try to sit forward of the wing to ensure your view of the DC skyline isn't obstructed by engine heat or the wing itself.
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South Mountain Park
Aerial views of the expansive desert preserve and the Gila River Valley south of Phoenix.
Meteor Crater
The massive, well-preserved impact site near Winslow, Arizona, visible depending on the specific flight corridor.
Great Plains Patchwork
The vast, geometric tapestry of agricultural fields across Kansas and Missouri.
The Pentagon
An incredibly close-up view of the world's largest office building just seconds before landing at DCA.
Old Town Alexandria
The historic waterfront and colonial streets of Alexandria, Virginia, visible during the final descent.
The right side is excellent if the aircraft is landing from the south (Runway 01), as it provides a sweeping view of the DC skyline during the final turn. This side also stays cooler during afternoon flights heading east. Keep an eye out for the Pentagon; it is much closer on the right side regardless of the landing direction. In autumn, the right side offers spectacular views of the changing foliage over the Shenandoah Valley.
Book Hotels in WashingtonDistance: 3,178 km (1,975 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 44 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: Domestic
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