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TLH destination photo
DCA destination photo

TLHDCA

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior for the legendary River Visual approach into DCA, offering an unparalleled view of the National Mall and the U.S. Capitol.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🌳

Red Hills Region

Lush canopy and rolling hills of Northern Florida and Southern Georgia immediately after takeoff.

🏙️

Charlotte Skyline

Distant but clear views of the Uptown Charlotte skyscrapers as you cross the Carolinas.

🏔️

Blue Ridge Horizon

The silhouette of the Appalachian Mountains visible to the west throughout the flight.

🏛️

National Mall

On the River Visual approach, see the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the Capitol Building.

⚪

The White House

An aerial perspective of the Executive Mansion just before the wheels touch the tarmac.

For the best experience, book a window seat away from the wing on the left side. On the 'River Visual' approach into Runway 19, the plane follows the Potomac River, placing all major DC monuments on the left. In the morning, the sun will be on the right side, making the left side much better for photography without glare.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Coastal Plain

Wide expanses of the Atlantic coastal wetlands and the edge of the Chesapeake Bay in the distance.

🏙️

Richmond Skyline

Views of the Virginia state capital and the James River winding through the city center.

📐

The Pentagon

A direct view of the world's largest office building and its unique five-sided architecture upon landing.

⚓

Old Town Alexandria

The historic waterfront and grid-like streets of Alexandria just south of the airport.

🛶

Potomac River

Beautiful views of the river's width and the various bridges connecting Virginia to D.C.

The right side is ideal for catching the sunset over the inland horizon on late afternoon flights. While you miss the main monuments on the final approach, you get an exceptional view of the Pentagon and the historic Old Town Alexandria waterfront. If the plane lands from the south, the right side often sees the National Harbor and the MGM casino.

Top Activities in Washington
Route Information

Distance: 1,153 km (716 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 32 min

Departure: TLH (30.396499633789062, -84.35030364990234)

Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)

Route Type: Domestic

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