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SJU destination photo
DCA destination photo

SJUDCA

Our Recommendation
9.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is legendary for its arrival into Washington D.C., offering a front-row seat to the iconic monuments along the Potomac River during the famous River Visual approach.

Right Side Highlights
9.8
⛰️

El Yunque

Spot the lush, green peaks of the tropical rainforest to the east of the airport during the initial ascent.

🌊

Atlantic Horizon

Expansive views of the deep blue Atlantic and turquoise coastal waters of the Caribbean.

🏛️

National Mall

Incredible views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol Building during the River Visual approach.

🏠

The White House

Clearly visible just north of the Washington Monument as the plane banks along the Potomac River.

🏟️

Nationals Park

Look for the baseball stadium and the rapidly developing Navy Yard district along the Anacostia River.

The right side is essential for seeing the D.C. monuments. Book a seat ahead of the wing for unobstructed views. If the wind is from the south, you'll see the monuments on landing; if from the north, you'll see them on the final banking turn.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏰

Old San Juan

Look out shortly after takeoff to see the historic San Felipe del Morro Fortress and the colorful walled city.

🏖️

Outer Banks

View the thin, sandy barrier islands of North Carolina as the flight path transitions from ocean to mainland.

🌉

Chesapeake Bay

Aerial views of the massive bay and the bridge-tunnel complex connecting Virginia's eastern shore.

🏢

The Pentagon

A clear view of the world's largest office building immediately before touchdown at Reagan National.

Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you and for a detailed look at the Pentagon on the final descent. It offers the best perspective of the San Juan coastline during the initial climb.

Top Activities in Washington
Route Information

Distance: 2,507 km (1,558 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 21 min

Departure: SJU (18.4393997192, -66.0018005371)

Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)

Route Type: International

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