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SLC â DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Salt Lake City International Airport (Salt Lake City) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the clear winner for the iconic 'River Visual' approach into DCA, offering a front-row seat to the National Mall, the White House, and the Capitol, alongside early views of the Great Salt Lake.
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Great Salt Lake
Aerial views of the salt flats and the distinct color contrast of the lake's northern and southern arms.
Wasatch Range
Stunning vistas of the rugged mountain peaks immediately following departure from SLC.
Nebraska Sandhills
Unique geological patterns of the grass-stabilized sand dunes in the Great Plains.
The National Mall
If landing on Runway 19, you get an unparalleled view of the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial.
U.S. Capitol
A direct view of the Capitol dome during the final banking maneuvers along the Potomac River.
Book a window seat on the left for the best chance to see the D.C. landmarks. Flights arriving from the west often use the 'River Visual' approach to Runway 19; look out the window about 3-5 minutes before touchdown. Morning flights are best for the left side to avoid direct southern sun glare.
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Uinta Mountains
Vibrant views of Utah's highest mountain range to the south during the initial climb.
Mississippi River
A massive geographic milestone visible as the flight crosses into the eastern United States.
Appalachian Mountains
Dense forest canopies and ridge-and-valley formations over West Virginia and Virginia.
The Pentagon
An incredible overhead view of the massive five-sided headquarters just seconds before landing.
Arlington National Cemetery
The orderly white headstones are clearly visible during the final descent into Reagan National.
The right side is ideal for passengers who prefer seeing the Pentagon and the Shenandoah Valley. Be aware that on morning flights, the sun will be on this side of the aircraft for the duration of the eastbound journey, which can make the cabin hot and the views glary.
Book Hotels in WashingtonDistance: 2,972 km (1,847 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 58 min
Departure: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: Domestic
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