While takeoff scenery is fairly flat on both sides, the left side wins overall because of the iconic Potomac River Visual approach into DCA, which offers close-up views of Washington's monuments that far outweigh the modest Austin skyline glimpse.
Flown AUS to DCA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Austin to Washington is 1,313 miles (2,114 km), a flight of about 2 hours 40 minutes.
Mississippi River near Memphis, rolling hills of Tennessee and the Appalachian foothills of Virginia
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from AUS
RIGHTDeparting AUS to the south, the right side gives a brief view over downtown Austin and Lady Bird Lake before the route turns northeast toward the Mississippi valley and mid-Atlantic. It's a modest but real skyline moment compared to the flat farmland on the left.
Landing at DCA
LEFTThe River Visual approach into DCA runway 19 tracks the Potomac River, and left-side windows face the Washington Monument, National Mall, and Capitol dome as the plane descends low over the water. This is one of the most famous scenic approaches in the US.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Austin to Washington. While takeoff scenery is fairly flat on both sides, the left side wins overall because of the iconic Potomac River Visual approach into DCA, which offers close-up views of Washington's monuments that far outweigh the modest Austin skyline glimpse.
What can I see during takeoff from Austin Bergstrom International in Austin?
During takeoff from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing AUS to the south, the right side gives a brief view over downtown Austin and Lady Bird Lake before the route turns northeast toward the Mississippi valley and mid-Atlantic. It's a modest but real skyline moment compared to the flat farmland on the left. Notable sights include: Downtown Austin skyline, Lady Bird Lake, Texas Hill Country edge.
What can I see when landing at Ronald Reagan Washington National in Washington?
When landing at Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), sit on the Left side for the best views. The River Visual approach into DCA runway 19 tracks the Potomac River, and left-side windows face the Washington Monument, National Mall, and Capitol dome as the plane descends low over the water. This is one of the most famous scenic approaches in the US. Notable sights include: Potomac River, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, U.S. Capitol dome.
How long is the flight from Austin to Washington?
The flight from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) takes about 2 hours 40 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,313 miles (2,114 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Austin to Washington flight path pass over?
Mississippi River near Memphis, rolling hills of Tennessee and the Appalachian foothills of Virginia