While takeoff favors the right, the landing approach into DCA is significantly more scenic, offering unobstructed views of iconic Washington landmarks. The landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.
Flown YOW to DCA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Ottawa to Washington is 453 miles (728 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains. Passengers will see the Appalachian ridge system running north-south roughly 40-60 miles to the west (left side during southbound cruise). The Rappahannock River and various Virginia piedmont rivers are visible below during cruise altitude. The landscape transitions from Canadian Shield forest near Ottawa to deciduous forest and agricultural land in Maryland and northern Virginia.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from YOW
RIGHTRight-side seats offer the best views during Ottawa departure. The aircraft typically climbs southeastward, giving right-side passengers direct views of the Gatineau Hills and the Ottawa River valley as the city recedes below.
Landing at DCA
LEFTLeft-side seats provide superior views during descent into DCA. The standard approach from the north brings the aircraft over the Potomac River and central Washington, D.C., with left-side passengers getting direct sightlines to the National Mall, the Tidal Basin, and the river itself.
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 Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Ottawa to Washington. While takeoff favors the right, the landing approach into DCA is significantly more scenic, offering unobstructed views of iconic Washington landmarks. The landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.
What can I see during takeoff from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International in Ottawa?
During takeoff from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer the best views during Ottawa departure. The aircraft typically climbs southeastward, giving right-side passengers direct views of the Gatineau Hills and the Ottawa River valley as the city recedes below. Notable sights include: Ottawa River, Gatineau Hills, Parliament Hill and downtown Ottawa skyline, Rideau Canal.
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. Left-side seats provide superior views during descent into DCA. The standard approach from the north brings the aircraft over the Potomac River and central Washington, D.C., with left-side passengers getting direct sightlines to the National Mall, the Tidal Basin, and the river itself. Notable sights include: Potomac River, National Mall and U.S. Capitol, Tidal Basin and Jefferson Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery.
How long is the flight from Ottawa to Washington?
The flight from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 453 miles (728 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Ottawa to Washington flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains. Passengers will see the Appalachian ridge system running north-south roughly 40-60 miles to the west (left side during southbound cruise). The Rappahannock River and various Virginia piedmont rivers are visible below during cruise altitude. The landscape transitions from Canadian Shield forest near Ottawa to deciduous forest and agricultural land in Maryland and northern Virginia.