Loading map...
YOW → DCA
Which side of the plane to sit from Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (Ottawa) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the preferred choice for this route because it provides the iconic view of the National Mall, including the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, during the famous 'River Visual' approach into DCA.
Search flights from YOW to DCA
St. Lawrence River
Aerial views of the border region and the eastern edge of the Thousand Islands shortly after takeoff.
Adirondack Mountains
Glacial lakes and the rugged, forested high peaks of upstate New York visible during the first half of the flight.
Baltimore Skyline
As the plane descends, the Inner Harbor and downtown Baltimore are often visible to the east.
The National Mall
The 'Money Shot' featuring the Lincoln Memorial, Reflecting Pool, and Washington Monument just seconds before landing.
U.S. Capitol
A clear view of the Capitol Dome and the Library of Congress as the plane aligns with the runway.
Book a window seat on the left (typically 'A' seats) for the best chance at the River Visual approach. In the morning, the sun will be on this side, so bring sunglasses. This side also offers better views of the Maryland coastline and the Chesapeake Bay in the distance if the flight path is slightly offset to the east.
Get eSIMs for Canada
Get eSIMs for United States
Appalachian Ridges
The striking 'ridge and valley' geological formations of central Pennsylvania are highly visible from cruising altitude.
Susquehanna River
The wide, shallow river winding through the Pennsylvania mountains is a major landmark mid-flight.
Harrisburg
The capital of Pennsylvania and the nearby Three Mile Island are often visible during the southward transit.
Dulles International Airport
Spot the iconic Eero Saarinen-designed terminal at IAD as you begin the final descent into the DC metro area.
The Pentagon
The massive five-sided headquarters of the Department of Defense is clearly visible on the final approach into DCA.
The right side ('F' or 'K' seats) is excellent for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. While you miss the National Mall, you get an incredible close-up of the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery. In autumn, the right side offers spectacular views of the changing foliage over the Appalachian Mountains.
Book Hotels in WashingtonDistance: 728 km (452 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 13 min
Departure: YOW (45.3224983215332, -75.66919708251953)
Arrival: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.