The left side wins primarily on the strength of the River Visual approach into DCA, one of the most scenic landings in U.S. commercial aviation, revealing the National Mall's monuments up close. The takeoff side also has a modest edge with Madison's lakes.
Flown MSN to DCA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Madison to Washington is 706 miles (1,136 km), a flight of about 1 hour 50 minutes.
Flat farmland and small towns of southern Wisconsin, northern Illinois, and Ohio, with the Allegheny Plateau's low ridgelines becoming visible as the flight approaches western Maryland.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MSN
LEFTDeparting MSN on Runway 18 with a turn east, the left side offers a good look back at Madison's twin lakes—Mendota and Monona—framing the isthmus downtown sits on. The right side mostly shows flat farmland with no distinguishing features.
Landing at DCA
LEFTArrivals into DCA on Runway 19 follow the River Visual approach, tracking south along the Potomac. Downtown DC's monuments sit on the east bank, putting the Washington Monument, Capitol dome, and Lincoln Memorial on the left side of the aircraft during final descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Dane Co Rgnl Truax Fld (MSN) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Madison to Washington. The left side wins primarily on the strength of the River Visual approach into DCA, one of the most scenic landings in U.S. commercial aviation, revealing the National Mall's monuments up close. The takeoff side also has a modest edge with Madison's lakes.
What can I see during takeoff from Dane Co Rgnl Truax Fld in Madison?
During takeoff from Dane Co Rgnl Truax Fld (MSN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing MSN on Runway 18 with a turn east, the left side offers a good look back at Madison's twin lakes—Mendota and Monona—framing the isthmus downtown sits on. The right side mostly shows flat farmland with no distinguishing features. Notable sights include: Lake Mendota, Lake Monona, Madison Capitol dome, Wisconsin farmland.
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. Arrivals into DCA on Runway 19 follow the River Visual approach, tracking south along the Potomac. Downtown DC's monuments sit on the east bank, putting the Washington Monument, Capitol dome, and Lincoln Memorial on the left side of the aircraft during final descent. Notable sights include: Washington Monument, U.S. Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, Potomac River.
How long is the flight from Madison to Washington?
The flight from Dane Co Rgnl Truax Fld (MSN) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) takes about 1 hour 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 706 miles (1,136 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Madison to Washington flight path pass over?
Flat farmland and small towns of southern Wisconsin, northern Illinois, and Ohio, with the Allegheny Plateau's low ridgelines becoming visible as the flight approaches western Maryland.