Right side scores higher due to superior takeoff scenery (Potomac River and DC monuments) and more interesting landing approach (Ozark plateau terrain vs flat farmland). The full flight experience favors the right side despite both sides being relatively modest for scenic value on this short, mostly flat-to-rolling route.
Flown DCA to XNA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Washington to Fayetteville/Springdale/Rogers is 961 miles (1,546 km), a flight of about 2 hours 35 minutes.
Shenandoah Valley (Virginia), Blue Ridge Mountains eastern foothills, Appalachian plateau transition zone, Kentucky-Tennessee border region, Cumberland Plateau
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from DCA
RIGHTRight side captures the Potomac River and downtown Washington DC landmarks during the River Visual approach departure northbound. Left side faces away from the city toward suburban Maryland.
Landing at XNA
RIGHTRight side (northwest-facing) provides views of the Ozark plateau terrain, forested hills, and the approach to Fayetteville's urban area during typical southerly-wind operations landing on runway 34. Left side sees only open farmland and sparse development.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Washington to Fayetteville/Springdale/Rogers. Right side scores higher due to superior takeoff scenery (Potomac River and DC monuments) and more interesting landing approach (Ozark plateau terrain vs flat farmland). The full flight experience favors the right side despite both sides being relatively modest for scenic value on this short, mostly flat-to-rolling route.
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 captures the Potomac River and downtown Washington DC landmarks during the River Visual approach departure northbound. Left side faces away from the city toward suburban Maryland. Notable sights include: Potomac River, Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial area, Arlington National Cemetery, Theodore Roosevelt Island.
What can I see when landing at Northwest Arkansas National Airport in Fayetteville/Springdale/Rogers?
When landing at Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (northwest-facing) provides views of the Ozark plateau terrain, forested hills, and the approach to Fayetteville's urban area during typical southerly-wind operations landing on runway 34. Left side sees only open farmland and sparse development. Notable sights include: Illinois River valley, Ozark plateau foothills, Fayetteville city grid, War Eagle Cavern area.
How long is the flight from Washington to Fayetteville/Springdale/Rogers?
The flight from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) takes about 2 hours 35 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 961 miles (1,546 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Washington to Fayetteville/Springdale/Rogers flight path pass over?
Shenandoah Valley (Virginia), Blue Ridge Mountains eastern foothills, Appalachian plateau transition zone, Kentucky-Tennessee border region, Cumberland Plateau