While takeoff offers coastal scenery, the landing approach into DCA provides more dramatic and iconic views of the nation's capital and the Potomac River corridor. The approach vectors to DCA from the south consistently deliver superior visual interest.
Flown SAV to DCA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Savannah to Washington is 520 miles (837 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path northwestward crosses the Coastal Plain of the Carolinas and Virginia. Notable features include the Neuse River near New Bern, North Carolina; the Roanoke River valley; and the Piedmont transition zone as you approach Virginia. The Cape Fear River region and various barrier islands are visible during the coastal portion of climb-out. No major mountain ranges are visible on this route—the terrain remains relatively flat until approaching the foothills west of the Piedmont.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from SAV
LEFTLeft side offers immediate views of the Savannah River estuary and the Atlantic coastline as the aircraft climbs northwestward. You'll see the marshlands and barrier islands that define the Low Country geography.
Landing at DCA
RIGHTRight side provides excellent views during descent into DCA. You'll see the Potomac River, Arlington, and the Washington Monument area as you approach from the south. The river's distinctive meanders and the urban landscape of the capital are striking.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Savannah Hilton Head International (SAV) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Savannah to Washington. While takeoff offers coastal scenery, the landing approach into DCA provides more dramatic and iconic views of the nation's capital and the Potomac River corridor. The approach vectors to DCA from the south consistently deliver superior visual interest.
What can I see during takeoff from Savannah Hilton Head International in Savannah?
During takeoff from Savannah Hilton Head International (SAV), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers immediate views of the Savannah River estuary and the Atlantic coastline as the aircraft climbs northwestward. You'll see the marshlands and barrier islands that define the Low Country geography. Notable sights include: Savannah River estuary, Tybee Island, Atlantic coastal marshlands, Calibogue Sound.
What can I see when landing at Ronald Reagan Washington National in Washington?
When landing at Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides excellent views during descent into DCA. You'll see the Potomac River, Arlington, and the Washington Monument area as you approach from the south. The river's distinctive meanders and the urban landscape of the capital are striking. Notable sights include: Potomac River, Arlington National Cemetery, Washington Monument and National Mall, Theodore Roosevelt Island.
How long is the flight from Savannah to Washington?
The flight from Savannah Hilton Head International (SAV) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 520 miles (837 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Savannah to Washington flight path pass over?
The flight path northwestward crosses the Coastal Plain of the Carolinas and Virginia. Notable features include the Neuse River near New Bern, North Carolina; the Roanoke River valley; and the Piedmont transition zone as you approach Virginia. The Cape Fear River region and various barrier islands are visible during the coastal portion of climb-out. No major mountain ranges are visible on this route—the terrain remains relatively flat until approaching the foothills west of the Piedmont.