Right side captures the Potomac River departure and offers better views during the climb-out phase over the most scenic part of the route. While left side has merits on approach, the takeoff experience from DCA is more visually rewarding on the right.
Flown DCA to CAK? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Washington to Akron is 274 miles (440 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Appalachian foothills of West Virginia and eastern Ohio. Notable features include the Ohio River valley visible from altitude, the ridge-and-valley topography of the Appalachian Mountains to the east (appearing as parallel ridges on the horizon), and the transition from forested terrain to agricultural Ohio farmland as you approach CAK. The Monongahela River and its tributaries may be visible in the midpoint of the flight over West Virginia.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from DCA
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Potomac River as it curves north from DCA, plus the Washington Monument and Capitol building visible on the left bank during initial climb. The river provides a clear geographic reference as you depart northwestward.
Landing at CAK
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the Cuyahoga River valley and downtown Akron as you descend on approach from the south. You'll see the river's distinctive curves and the urban core before touchdown at CAK.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Akron Canton Regional Airport (CAK)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Washington to Akron. Right side captures the Potomac River departure and offers better views during the climb-out phase over the most scenic part of the route. While left side has merits on approach, the takeoff experience from DCA is more visually rewarding on the right.
What can I see during takeoff from Ronald Reagan Washington National in Washington?
During takeoff from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Potomac River as it curves north from DCA, plus the Washington Monument and Capitol building visible on the left bank during initial climb. The river provides a clear geographic reference as you depart northwestward. Notable sights include: Potomac River, Washington Monument, Capitol Building, Arlington area urban sprawl.
What can I see when landing at Akron Canton Regional Airport in Akron?
When landing at Akron Canton Regional Airport (CAK), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Cuyahoga River valley and downtown Akron as you descend on approach from the south. You'll see the river's distinctive curves and the urban core before touchdown at CAK. Notable sights include: Cuyahoga River, Akron downtown skyline, Summit Lake, Ohio farmland.
How long is the flight from Washington to Akron?
The flight from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Akron Canton Regional Airport (CAK) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 274 miles (440 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Washington to Akron flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Appalachian foothills of West Virginia and eastern Ohio. Notable features include the Ohio River valley visible from altitude, the ridge-and-valley topography of the Appalachian Mountains to the east (appearing as parallel ridges on the horizon), and the transition from forested terrain to agricultural Ohio farmland as you approach CAK. The Monongahela River and its tributaries may be visible in the midpoint of the flight over West Virginia.