Introduction to DCA

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), serving as the capital’s primary airport, is uniquely situated next to the Potomac River. Handling nearly 14 million passengers in 2021, DCA stands out as a national airport with no TSA passport control, primarily handling domestic flights and some from Canada. American Eagle operates a regional hub here, while major carriers like American, Delta, Southwest, and JetBlue offer a broad range of destinations. The airport is renowned for its “River Visual” approach over the Potomac, providing passengers with stunning views of Washington D.C., including landmarks like the White House and Capitol.

Airport Information

• Runways: Three runways, with the main 01/19 runway measuring 2,094 meters.
• Terminals: Three terminals with various airlines, including Terminal A for Air Canada Express, Frontier, and Southwest; Terminal B for United, Delta, American, JetBlue, and Alaska; and Terminal C is exclusively American Airlines.

Spotting Information

• Transportation: Easily accessible by foot from the terminal; excellent public transport links.
• Amenities: Public restrooms near most spots.
• Hotels: Several hotels west of the terminal, but not good for spotting
• Season: Summer months are ideal, especially for evening photography.

Runway Usage

• 01/19: Main runway used in both directions.
• 04/22: Usage not commonly observed.
• 15/33: Limited use, primarily by regional jets.

Top Spotting Locations

1. Terminal B/C – Apron, 15 & 19 Arrivals
   • Location: Plaza at the south end of the terminal or sidewalk down the access ramp.
   • Views: Terminal B ramp (Alaska and United), runway 01 arrivals and departures.
   • Best Time: Noon till sunset; night photography viable.
   • Notes: Heat haze can be an issue.
   • Focal Length: 50-500 mm.
2. Gravelly Point Park – 19 & 15 Arrivals
   • Location: Northward on the Mt. Vernon Trail from the terminal; accessible by car from the George Washington Memorial Hwy.
   • Views: Directly under RWY19 approach; switch sides for lighting.
   • Best Time: Afternoon till sunset for RWY 19; until noon for RWY 15.
   • Notes: Popular relaxation spot
   • Focal Length: 50-150 mm.
3. Daingerfield Island – 01 Arrivals
   • Location: Marina on Daingerfield Island, accessible from George Washington Memorial Hwy.
   • Views: Arrivals on RWY01.
   • Best Time: Noon onwards.
   • Notes: Nearby restaurant and restrooms.
   • Focal Length: 70-200 mm.
4. Long Bridge Aquatics & Fitness Center – 01 Departures & 19 Arrival
   • Location: Near the end of RWY 01; parking at the football field.
   • Views: 01 departures and 19 arrivals.
   • Best Time: Noon to sunset.
   • Notes: No nearby shops; restroom inside the football field.
   • Focal Length: 300-500 mm for various aircraft types.
5. Hains Point – 01 Departure and 19 Arrivals
   • Location: West side of Ohio Drive SW on Hains Point.
   • Views: 01 departures and 19 arrivals/line-ups.
   • Best Time: Morning until noon.
   • Notes: Heat haze can be an issue; public restrooms available.
   • Focal Length: At least 500 mm.
6. Memorial – 19 Arrivals
   • Location: Near Columbia Island Marina, accessible via pedestrian tunnel.
   • Views: Arrivals on 19.
   • Best Time: Noon to sunset.
   • Notes: Benches, trees, nearby restaurant, and restrooms.
   • Focal Length: 200-300 mm for various aircraft types.

Conclusion

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport offers a unique plane spotting experience with its scenic “River Visual” approach and proximity to iconic landmarks. The variety of spots around the airport caters to different preferences, ensuring that both casual observers and avid aviation enthusiasts can enjoy the thrill of aviation in the heart of the nation’s capital. Whether you’re capturing the majesty of a commercial airliner or enjoying the tranquil surroundings, DCA promises an unforgettable spotting adventure.