Nov 17, 2013, 8:55 am
Last edit by: Prospero
Please edit or add information to this wiki as necessary.
Check-in times as of March 2016 Link
In most locations, you must be checked in:
At least 45 minutes before scheduled departure, for flights within the United States
At least 60 minutes before scheduled departure, for flights to or from airports outside of the United States
For nonstop American Airlines Shuttle flights from DCA to BOS or LGA, you can check-in up to 20 minutes before departure without checked baggage and 30 minutes with checked baggage.[/QUOTE]
Wait, what's the name of this airport?
In 1998, an act of Congress renamed DCA from Washington National Airport to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Apart from costing the taxpayers millions of dollars in changing signage around town, the renaming upset left-leaning locals and traditionalists. Old-school locals will refer to the airport as "National" or "Washington National," some vehemently so. "Reagan National" has slipped into local parlance, sometimes as a political statement, sometimes as a slip of the tongue. You can avoid the politics if you just call it DCA, which is a surprisingly mainstream way of referring to it.
DCA is a very compact airport. Gates are numbered south to north. Terminal 1 is the historic terminal (1941) and its gates (A1-A9) are served by Air Canada, Southwest, and Frontier. Terminal 2, the "new" terminal (1997), is divided into the following four piers, from south to north:
Terminal 2 has three passenger accessible levels. A drop-off/departures level on the top floor, where taxis and other vehicles drop passengers and the main check-in counters are located; the concourse level in the middle, with all security screening and some secondary check-in/bag drop counters, with access to parking garages and the Metro (subway) system entrance; and a baggage/arrivals level on the bottom, where baggage claim is located along with taxi stands, bus pickups, and other passenger pickup.American Airlines at DCA
AA operates a hub at DCA. Constrained by the perimeter rule, capacity controls, and airport facility constraints, AA is nonetheless able to offer nonstop service to most destinations of consequence within 1250 miles of DCA. Beyond the 1250-mile perimeter, AA has perimeter slot exemptions to provide three daily nonstops to PHX, two daily nonstops to LAX and one to LAS.
Ticketing and Check-in
The general AA ticketing/check-in counters are on the upper level (same level as departures/drop-off) in Terminal 2. If you are not checking bags and do not need to see a desk agent, there are several kiosks opposite the ticket counters. If you arrive via Metro or park in North Parking, there are AA kiosks and staffed check-in/bag drop counters to the left just as you enter the airport from the walkway.
Curbside check-in is available for a fee.
AA Gates
Effective November 9, 2021, the entire National Hall (running north/south and connecting Concourses B through E) is all airside. As a result, it is now possible to walk between piers in Terminal 2 without the need to exit/re-clear security.
Connections to carriers in Terminal 1 (Frontier, Air Canada, Southwest) require exiting security. From the time one leaves Concourse E to the time one arrives at security for Terminal A should be no more than a brisk 12-minute walk entirely indoors. There is also an airport shuttle bus that runs around the airport, stopping at each terminal and at the rental car garage, but it probably takes just as long as walking.
Security at DCA
Although security wait times can vary depending on time/day, the screening process usually proceeds very swiftly at DCA. Effective November 9, 2021, security for Terminal 2 is handled by two new screening areas built over the roadway between the parking garage and the terminal building. Passengers flying out of gates B10 through E59 may use either screening facility, although the north area is closer to gates D35 through E59. AA gates in the old center pier, now known as Concourse C, are equidistant to the two screening areas.
DCA Lounges
AA Admirals clubs are located
Food
"Are they serving fries on this flight?" No. But your FA is using the ovens to keep warm the lunch s/he managed to grab at Five Guys.
Options for food are limited, but reasonably good.
On Concourse D:
Five Guys Burgers and Fries (a Northern Virginia homegrown favorite--wait times can be long at peak hours)
Hudson News
Kapnos Taverna (Greek)
Wow Bao (pan-Asian buns)
Washington Pour Bar
Dunkin' Donuts
Say Si Bon!
Georgetown Gourmet Market
&pizza (custom thin-crust pizza)
American Tap Room
On Concourse C:
Smashburger
Lebanese Taverna
U Street Pub
Magic Pan
Dunkin' Donuts
Say Si Bon!
El Centro D.F. (Mexican)
Taylor Gourmet (hoagies)
Big Bowl (pan-Asian stir-fries)
Forbes News
There are many airside food and shopping options in National Hall, from sushi to Spanx to Smithsonian souvenirs. Here's a map of the dining and retail options, pre and post security.
Baggage Claim
The baggage area at DCA is one level below the arrivals/gate level. Take the escalators/stairs/elevators directly ahead (across National Hall) leading to the lower level, where you will exit the secure/airside area. Monitors at the base of the escalators display carousel information for individual flights (but see caveat below).
AA baggage arrives on carousels 10-12. Pay attention to the monitors at individual carousels, as US often delivers bags on a different carousel from the one displayed on the monitors near the escalators from arrivals.
International Flights
DCA does not have customs and immigration, however pre-clearance international flights do land here. For example AA operates flights to BDA and NAS.
Foreign Currency Exchange
Travelex Currency Service is located in National Hall.
Baggage Carts
Smartecarte baggage carts are available throughout the terminals, parking garages, and at the Metrorail station. The SmarteCarte kiosks accept coins, $1 and $5 bills.
Passenger Assistance
Electric cart service for transporting passengers between gates is not available at DCA. Contact US to make arrangements for wheel chair assistance, if necessary.
Your 3-hour Connection at DCA
Step down the hall that connects Terminal 1 to Terminal 2. This passageway typically houses a small selection of area and aviation exhibits. Speaking of history, the airport was built next to George Washington's granddaughter's home, the ruins of which are on a knoll between the parking garages.
Terminal 1 has limited amenities but does have some nice views of the runways before you reach the security checkpoint; there is a Starbucks and some rocking chairs close to the prime takeoff viewing!
If you need more shopping opportunities, the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City is 7-10 minutes away (door to door) by Metro or cab.
Parking at DCA
Daily garages, when not full, are very convenient at DCA. If spaces are available, you can avoid the elevator by parking on garage level 2. Off-site Economy is also available, and not too far flung. See the airport website for more information.
Ground Transportation Departing DCA
Taxi service is readily available. If you have not traveled to DC in a while, you will be pleased to know that DC taxis have eliminated the zone fare system in favor of a metered fare, and now accept credit cards. From DCA to most points in downtown DC you can expect a fare of $15 to $20, depending on baggage and number of passengers.
DCA is also served by Metro, Washington's subway system. The Metro station is connected to Terminal 2 by walkway on the concourse level. DCA is served by the Yellow and Blue Line trains. Access to the station is by faregate rather than turnstile, which means that rollaboards are easily managed. Wheelchair-accessible gates are readily available and useful for larger luggage. Trains can be very crowded during peak times (so a family of four with luggage will be much better off in a cab). Travel time into downtown varies depending on destination and wait times, but averages 15 to 20 minutes.
Fares depend on distance and time of day. A SmarTrip plastic farecard is required for each traveler. The card itself costs $2 and can be purchased at vending machines just inside the station.
For more detailed information on trip durations and applicable fares, see the interactive Metro Trip Planner.
Getting to Union Station (Amtrak and MARC train to BWI, various intercity bus services)
By Metro - see map
Take a Yellow line train toward Fort Totten (or Mt. Vernon Square, or Greenbelt). Exit this train at Gallery Place/Chinatown and transfer to the Red Line train in the direction of Glenmont. This train will take you directly to Union Station. The fare for this trip is $2.85 (peak/rush hour) and $2.45 (off-peak) on weekdays and a flat $2.00 on weekends.
Estimated trip time varies; weekday midday estimate is 24 minutes but less frequent service and regular maintenance/track work on the weekends and late evenings can extend the time by an hour.
By Taxi
Estimated taxi fare during non-rush hour travel is about $17-18 (before tip), which may be worth it on weekends or if facing a deadline at Union Station.
To continue on to BWI
This map outlines DCA-BWI-IAD transit options, including:
Take Metro Yellow line train in the direction of Mt. Vernon Square, Ft. Totten, or Greenbelt; if your train's final destination isn't Greenbelt, exit at Archives station and transfer to the Green line in the direction of Greenbelt (on the same platform). Take this train to the end of the line. Connect to the B30 bus to BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport. Service runs every hour during weekdays.
Bus fare is $7.50 and the trip should take about 40 minutes. Metro fare is $3.85/$5.90 peak and $2.00 on weekends.
Useful links:
http://wmata.com (Metro)
http://mta.maryland.gov/services/mar...mMaps/penn.cfm (MARC train Penn line)
http://amtrak.com (Amtrak)
General note about Metro: not all trains service the final stop on a given line. Greenbelt is the end of the Green line and some Yellow line trains, so you must take a train specifically to Greenbelt to reach that station. However, Silver Spring is not the terminus of the Red Line train; to reach Union Station your train may actually terminate in Glenmont. Check the Metro system maps to confirm your options.
Connecting to IAD
Taxi
Taxi fare will run upwards of $45 (as high as $80 in rush hour/stalled traffic) so public transport is the more affordable option, although the journey can be long.
The reverse journey (IAD to DCA) can be even more expensive, due to the rules on which taxis are allowed to pick up at IAD and the fares they are permitted to charge.
Public Transport - see MWAA's page
Take Metro's Blue Line toward Largo; at Rosslyn, transfer to the Silver Line in the direction of Ashburn. Or, take Metro's Yellow Line service toward Fort Totten; at L'Enfant Plaza, transfer to the Silver Line in the direction of Ashburn.
Estimated trip time: 80-90 minutes
Estimated cost: fares range from as low as $2.00 on weekends (flat rate) to as high as $6.00 during the weekday "rush" periods.
Getting to DCA via Metro
Take the Yellow or Blue Line to the airport station. Note that there are two walkways/skybridges connecting the Metro station to Terminal 2, one at each end of the Metro platform. The north skybridge is closer to Concourses C & D and the AA check-in counter, and the two walkways are equidistant to Concourse C, so travelers arriving on trains from the center city should plan to be at (or walk toward) the rear of the train upon arrival.
Walking or biking
If you're feeling energetic, there are signed walking & cycling routes to DCA from Crystal City and the Mount Vernon Trail, which connects D.C. to Alexandria. As a bonus, the trail passes through Gravelly Point Park, right below the flight paths. Bicycle racks are available within the garage, on the ground floor near the C walkway.
Rental cars
The on-airport car rental center is in the south parking garage, roughly across from Concourse B. Walk across the Concourse B bridge from the terminal to the garage (next to Cibo Bistro), turn left, and follow the signs. There's also a shuttle bus from the arrivals level.
Note: Advantage and Dollar are located off-airport and run shuttles via the arrivals level roadway.
The River Visual
The flight approaches to DCA fly over the Potomac River, in order to avoid noise impacts over the city and to avoid flights over “P-56″ (aka the Monumental Core). If winds are from the south/east, flights will land from the north and take off to the south. Planes are closer to the ground during landing than during take-off, so if you have this landing you’ll be treated to fantastic views of central D.C. (on the left side) and Arlington (on the right side) in the last few minutes of flight. YouTube has a selection of good cockpit-view videos.
If winds are from the north/west, flights will take off to the north and land from the south (i.e., "Mount Vernon Visual," with views of George Washington's house and Alexandria from the left side of the plane).
Acknowledgments
The bulk of this wiki was originally created by user DCAorBust, with substantial help from dcpatti. See post #1 in the thread for the pre-wiki version.
Check-in times as of March 2016 Link
In most locations, you must be checked in:
At least 45 minutes before scheduled departure, for flights within the United States
At least 60 minutes before scheduled departure, for flights to or from airports outside of the United States
For nonstop American Airlines Shuttle flights from DCA to BOS or LGA, you can check-in up to 20 minutes before departure without checked baggage and 30 minutes with checked baggage.[/QUOTE]
Wait, what's the name of this airport?
In 1998, an act of Congress renamed DCA from Washington National Airport to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Apart from costing the taxpayers millions of dollars in changing signage around town, the renaming upset left-leaning locals and traditionalists. Old-school locals will refer to the airport as "National" or "Washington National," some vehemently so. "Reagan National" has slipped into local parlance, sometimes as a political statement, sometimes as a slip of the tongue. You can avoid the politics if you just call it DCA, which is a surprisingly mainstream way of referring to it.
DCA is a very compact airport. Gates are numbered south to north. Terminal 1 is the historic terminal (1941) and its gates (A1-A9) are served by Air Canada, Southwest, and Frontier. Terminal 2, the "new" terminal (1997), is divided into the following four piers, from south to north:
- Concourse B, gates B10-B22 (Alaska, Delta, United)
- Concourse C, gates C23-C34 (American, JetBlue)
- Concourse D, gates D35-D45 (American)
- Concourse E, gates E46-E-59 (American); this is the newest pier (opened 2021)
Terminal 2 has three passenger accessible levels. A drop-off/departures level on the top floor, where taxis and other vehicles drop passengers and the main check-in counters are located; the concourse level in the middle, with all security screening and some secondary check-in/bag drop counters, with access to parking garages and the Metro (subway) system entrance; and a baggage/arrivals level on the bottom, where baggage claim is located along with taxi stands, bus pickups, and other passenger pickup.American Airlines at DCA
AA operates a hub at DCA. Constrained by the perimeter rule, capacity controls, and airport facility constraints, AA is nonetheless able to offer nonstop service to most destinations of consequence within 1250 miles of DCA. Beyond the 1250-mile perimeter, AA has perimeter slot exemptions to provide three daily nonstops to PHX, two daily nonstops to LAX and one to LAS.
Ticketing and Check-in
The general AA ticketing/check-in counters are on the upper level (same level as departures/drop-off) in Terminal 2. If you are not checking bags and do not need to see a desk agent, there are several kiosks opposite the ticket counters. If you arrive via Metro or park in North Parking, there are AA kiosks and staffed check-in/bag drop counters to the left just as you enter the airport from the walkway.
Curbside check-in is available for a fee.
AA Gates
- AA occupies all gates in the two north concourses (gates D35-D45 and gates E46-E59)
- American Eagle regional jet and turboprop flights formerly operated from Gate 35X (previously known as 35A). Gate 35X was a combined gate: when flights are called to board, passengers descend the escalator to queue for a shuttle bus transport to the aircraft at a remote stand. The new north pier, Concourse E, has now replaced 35X.
- AA occupies gates C23, C25, C27, C29, and C31-C34 in Concourse C,
- AA Shuttle flights to BOS/LGA depart from gates C29, C31, and C33 in Concourse C.
Effective November 9, 2021, the entire National Hall (running north/south and connecting Concourses B through E) is all airside. As a result, it is now possible to walk between piers in Terminal 2 without the need to exit/re-clear security.
Connections to carriers in Terminal 1 (Frontier, Air Canada, Southwest) require exiting security. From the time one leaves Concourse E to the time one arrives at security for Terminal A should be no more than a brisk 12-minute walk entirely indoors. There is also an airport shuttle bus that runs around the airport, stopping at each terminal and at the rental car garage, but it probably takes just as long as walking.
Security at DCA
Although security wait times can vary depending on time/day, the screening process usually proceeds very swiftly at DCA. Effective November 9, 2021, security for Terminal 2 is handled by two new screening areas built over the roadway between the parking garage and the terminal building. Passengers flying out of gates B10 through E59 may use either screening facility, although the north area is closer to gates D35 through E59. AA gates in the old center pier, now known as Concourse C, are equidistant to the two screening areas.
DCA Lounges
AA Admirals clubs are located
- near gates C24 and D36, accessed via stairs or elevator immediately past National Hall, and
- upstairs near gate E46, a short ride down the moving walkways from National Hall.
Food
"Are they serving fries on this flight?" No. But your FA is using the ovens to keep warm the lunch s/he managed to grab at Five Guys.
Options for food are limited, but reasonably good.
On Concourse D:
Five Guys Burgers and Fries (a Northern Virginia homegrown favorite--wait times can be long at peak hours)
Hudson News
Kapnos Taverna (Greek)
Wow Bao (pan-Asian buns)
Washington Pour Bar
Dunkin' Donuts
Say Si Bon!
Georgetown Gourmet Market
&pizza (custom thin-crust pizza)
American Tap Room
On Concourse C:
Smashburger
Lebanese Taverna
U Street Pub
Magic Pan
Dunkin' Donuts
Say Si Bon!
El Centro D.F. (Mexican)
Taylor Gourmet (hoagies)
Big Bowl (pan-Asian stir-fries)
Forbes News
There are many airside food and shopping options in National Hall, from sushi to Spanx to Smithsonian souvenirs. Here's a map of the dining and retail options, pre and post security.
Baggage Claim
The baggage area at DCA is one level below the arrivals/gate level. Take the escalators/stairs/elevators directly ahead (across National Hall) leading to the lower level, where you will exit the secure/airside area. Monitors at the base of the escalators display carousel information for individual flights (but see caveat below).
AA baggage arrives on carousels 10-12. Pay attention to the monitors at individual carousels, as US often delivers bags on a different carousel from the one displayed on the monitors near the escalators from arrivals.
International Flights
DCA does not have customs and immigration, however pre-clearance international flights do land here. For example AA operates flights to BDA and NAS.
Foreign Currency Exchange
Travelex Currency Service is located in National Hall.
Baggage Carts
Smartecarte baggage carts are available throughout the terminals, parking garages, and at the Metrorail station. The SmarteCarte kiosks accept coins, $1 and $5 bills.
Passenger Assistance
Electric cart service for transporting passengers between gates is not available at DCA. Contact US to make arrangements for wheel chair assistance, if necessary.
Your 3-hour Connection at DCA
Step down the hall that connects Terminal 1 to Terminal 2. This passageway typically houses a small selection of area and aviation exhibits. Speaking of history, the airport was built next to George Washington's granddaughter's home, the ruins of which are on a knoll between the parking garages.
Terminal 1 has limited amenities but does have some nice views of the runways before you reach the security checkpoint; there is a Starbucks and some rocking chairs close to the prime takeoff viewing!
If you need more shopping opportunities, the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City is 7-10 minutes away (door to door) by Metro or cab.
Parking at DCA
Daily garages, when not full, are very convenient at DCA. If spaces are available, you can avoid the elevator by parking on garage level 2. Off-site Economy is also available, and not too far flung. See the airport website for more information.
Ground Transportation Departing DCA
Taxi service is readily available. If you have not traveled to DC in a while, you will be pleased to know that DC taxis have eliminated the zone fare system in favor of a metered fare, and now accept credit cards. From DCA to most points in downtown DC you can expect a fare of $15 to $20, depending on baggage and number of passengers.
DCA is also served by Metro, Washington's subway system. The Metro station is connected to Terminal 2 by walkway on the concourse level. DCA is served by the Yellow and Blue Line trains. Access to the station is by faregate rather than turnstile, which means that rollaboards are easily managed. Wheelchair-accessible gates are readily available and useful for larger luggage. Trains can be very crowded during peak times (so a family of four with luggage will be much better off in a cab). Travel time into downtown varies depending on destination and wait times, but averages 15 to 20 minutes.
Fares depend on distance and time of day. A SmarTrip plastic farecard is required for each traveler. The card itself costs $2 and can be purchased at vending machines just inside the station.
For more detailed information on trip durations and applicable fares, see the interactive Metro Trip Planner.
Getting to Union Station (Amtrak and MARC train to BWI, various intercity bus services)
By Metro - see map
Take a Yellow line train toward Fort Totten (or Mt. Vernon Square, or Greenbelt). Exit this train at Gallery Place/Chinatown and transfer to the Red Line train in the direction of Glenmont. This train will take you directly to Union Station. The fare for this trip is $2.85 (peak/rush hour) and $2.45 (off-peak) on weekdays and a flat $2.00 on weekends.
Estimated trip time varies; weekday midday estimate is 24 minutes but less frequent service and regular maintenance/track work on the weekends and late evenings can extend the time by an hour.
By Taxi
Estimated taxi fare during non-rush hour travel is about $17-18 (before tip), which may be worth it on weekends or if facing a deadline at Union Station.
To continue on to BWI
This map outlines DCA-BWI-IAD transit options, including:
- Amtrak direct service (price varies from as low as $11 with advance purchase)
- MARC (Maryland Area Rail Commuter) Penn Line, $8 each way
Take Metro Yellow line train in the direction of Mt. Vernon Square, Ft. Totten, or Greenbelt; if your train's final destination isn't Greenbelt, exit at Archives station and transfer to the Green line in the direction of Greenbelt (on the same platform). Take this train to the end of the line. Connect to the B30 bus to BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport. Service runs every hour during weekdays.
Bus fare is $7.50 and the trip should take about 40 minutes. Metro fare is $3.85/$5.90 peak and $2.00 on weekends.
Useful links:
http://wmata.com (Metro)
http://mta.maryland.gov/services/mar...mMaps/penn.cfm (MARC train Penn line)
http://amtrak.com (Amtrak)
General note about Metro: not all trains service the final stop on a given line. Greenbelt is the end of the Green line and some Yellow line trains, so you must take a train specifically to Greenbelt to reach that station. However, Silver Spring is not the terminus of the Red Line train; to reach Union Station your train may actually terminate in Glenmont. Check the Metro system maps to confirm your options.
Connecting to IAD
Taxi
Taxi fare will run upwards of $45 (as high as $80 in rush hour/stalled traffic) so public transport is the more affordable option, although the journey can be long.
The reverse journey (IAD to DCA) can be even more expensive, due to the rules on which taxis are allowed to pick up at IAD and the fares they are permitted to charge.
Public Transport - see MWAA's page
Take Metro's Blue Line toward Largo; at Rosslyn, transfer to the Silver Line in the direction of Ashburn. Or, take Metro's Yellow Line service toward Fort Totten; at L'Enfant Plaza, transfer to the Silver Line in the direction of Ashburn.
Estimated trip time: 80-90 minutes
Estimated cost: fares range from as low as $2.00 on weekends (flat rate) to as high as $6.00 during the weekday "rush" periods.
Getting to DCA via Metro
Take the Yellow or Blue Line to the airport station. Note that there are two walkways/skybridges connecting the Metro station to Terminal 2, one at each end of the Metro platform. The north skybridge is closer to Concourses C & D and the AA check-in counter, and the two walkways are equidistant to Concourse C, so travelers arriving on trains from the center city should plan to be at (or walk toward) the rear of the train upon arrival.
Walking or biking
If you're feeling energetic, there are signed walking & cycling routes to DCA from Crystal City and the Mount Vernon Trail, which connects D.C. to Alexandria. As a bonus, the trail passes through Gravelly Point Park, right below the flight paths. Bicycle racks are available within the garage, on the ground floor near the C walkway.
Rental cars
The on-airport car rental center is in the south parking garage, roughly across from Concourse B. Walk across the Concourse B bridge from the terminal to the garage (next to Cibo Bistro), turn left, and follow the signs. There's also a shuttle bus from the arrivals level.
Note: Advantage and Dollar are located off-airport and run shuttles via the arrivals level roadway.
The River Visual
The flight approaches to DCA fly over the Potomac River, in order to avoid noise impacts over the city and to avoid flights over “P-56″ (aka the Monumental Core). If winds are from the south/east, flights will land from the north and take off to the south. Planes are closer to the ground during landing than during take-off, so if you have this landing you’ll be treated to fantastic views of central D.C. (on the left side) and Arlington (on the right side) in the last few minutes of flight. YouTube has a selection of good cockpit-view videos.
If winds are from the north/west, flights will take off to the north and land from the south (i.e., "Mount Vernon Visual," with views of George Washington's house and Alexandria from the left side of the plane).
Acknowledgments
The bulk of this wiki was originally created by user DCAorBust, with substantial help from dcpatti. See post #1 in the thread for the pre-wiki version.
AA Guide: DCA / Reagan Washington National Airport - MCT, Connection, etc.
Oct 21, 2011, 9:17 pm
#61
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: DCA
Programs: AA EXP
Posts: 122
My experience is similar to that of DC Patti's on this one: I live in DC, and a Virginia cab is usually about $3 more expensive than a DC cab. (I live on 14th Street not far from downtown.) Now, I always ask for a DC cab, even if the line is long. The dispatchers don't seem to mind, and normally a DC cab will come shortly.
Oct 22, 2011, 5:03 pm
#62
Suspended
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: DCA
Programs: UA US CO AA DL FL
Posts: 50,262
To some extent it actually depends on the cab you're put in, as the DC-licensed cabs (now operating on meters) are about .75/mile cheaper than the VA-licensed cabs, so even with a higher flag drop charge and higher DCA surcharge, the same ride in a VA cab will cost more. If you don't hit any of the waiting time surcharges, or the suitcase charges (one free in a DC cab, 2 in a VA cab) a 6-mile trip to Union Station will cost $3.75 more in a VA cab.
The taxi dispatchers do try to align DC-bound passengers with DC-licensed cabs and VA-bound passengers with VA-licensed cabs but when the line is long, that goes out the window. If you're very cost-concious and going to DC then try to get in a DC cab; I don't believe a DC cab can pick up at DCA and drop off to a VA destination though. Usually when the line is long enough for me to get assigned a VA cab I am just happy enough to have *any* cab that I grab it (and usually overtip the cabbie because the VA cabs can't pick up in DC unless they're going to a VA destination, which is not common in my residential neigbhorhood, so I feel bad about dragging the poor guy all the way up here and basically taking him out of service for the hour).
The taxi dispatchers do try to align DC-bound passengers with DC-licensed cabs and VA-bound passengers with VA-licensed cabs but when the line is long, that goes out the window. If you're very cost-concious and going to DC then try to get in a DC cab; I don't believe a DC cab can pick up at DCA and drop off to a VA destination though. Usually when the line is long enough for me to get assigned a VA cab I am just happy enough to have *any* cab that I grab it (and usually overtip the cabbie because the VA cabs can't pick up in DC unless they're going to a VA destination, which is not common in my residential neigbhorhood, so I feel bad about dragging the poor guy all the way up here and basically taking him out of service for the hour).
Dec 26, 2011, 7:28 pm
#63
Join Date: May 2011
Location: MYR
Programs: spirit elite, MRgold Hilton Gold
Posts: 454
Club to 35A
I am connecting through DCA going from mainline to express, tommorow am. Was going to stop in the club real quick and grab something to snack on, and maybe a quick drink to make the short flight a little more tolerable(E145). Was curious how much time is recommended to leave the club in enough time to get on the bus to the plane. Typically, I am the last guy on the plane in these situations, but i assume the bus stays until we are all on board.
Thanks
Thanks
Dec 26, 2011, 8:29 pm
#64
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: DCA
Programs: Hyatt Globalist, Delta SM, Marriott Plat , Hilton Gold, Hertz 5*, IHG Spire
Posts: 259
I'd say 20 mins. They'll announce boarding and you should go at that point. Because once they stop announcing it, they're not under any obligation to drive you out there.
Dec 27, 2011, 10:30 am
#65
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Washington, DC
Programs: US-CP, UA, Marriott Rewards, HHonors, Avis,
Posts: 4,549
I am connecting through DCA going from mainline to express, tommorow am. Was going to stop in the club real quick and grab something to snack on, and maybe a quick drink to make the short flight a little more tolerable(E145). Was curious how much time is recommended to leave the club in enough time to get on the bus to the plane. Typically, I am the last guy on the plane in these situations, but i assume the bus stays until we are all on board.
Thanks
Thanks
Dec 27, 2011, 12:09 pm
#66
Suspended
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: DCA
Programs: UA US CO AA DL FL
Posts: 50,262
Actually they rarely announce boarding in the Club at DCA (most other domestic clubs, either, and not just US, or at least the many I've bern in). 35A is about 75 yards down the hall from the Club but tends to be a chaotic mess so I usually don't head down till maybe 10 minutes before boarding. That said, the CRJ's usually need two busses to get everyone out there (they hold more pax than the bus does) but i'd not count on them holding the bus for you. I've never seen them deny anyone boarding, but given that you don't scan your BP till right before you step on the bus, and that it takes a couple minutes to reach the plane once you're on the bus, I'd not risk being too late; otherwise they might be closing up and counting you as no-show while you're still on your way.
Dec 27, 2011, 12:50 pm
#67
In Memoriam, FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: Durham, NC (RDU/GSO/CLT)
Programs: AA EXP/MM, DL GM, UA Platinum, HH DIA, Hyatt Explorist, IHG Platinum, Marriott Titanium, Hertz PC
Posts: 33,857
Just a note that the US Club on weekdays and Sunday closes at 9 PM even though there are numerous flights departing at 10 PM and afterward. This is rather annoying.
Jan 22, 2012, 3:05 pm
#68
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: YQR
Programs: NEXUS; alas, no status anymore.
Posts: 1,181
Hi all,
Heading to Washington in late May for my first-ever visit there. I'll be travelling with my wife.
From what I read, it looks like it's sensible to take the Metro with our baggage to downtown Washington? We'll likely have two medium-sized roller suitcases (too large to carry on board, so checked) between us, plus our carry-ons (laptop bag and camera bag for me, backpack and purse for my wife).
We managed to take all this baggage plus a camera tripod and a large checked suitcase on the London Underground Piccadilly Line from Heathrow to Earl's Court station in Kensington, so we're not entirely alien to riding subways with luggage, but when you board at Heathrow the train is essentially empty and there are special areas to put your luggage. We put our suitcases there and were able to sit right beside them for the 45-minute ride to Earl's Court.
Does this make sense?
We'll probably be taking Amtrak to Philadelphia after a week and flying out of PHL so the return trip isn't really a concern.
Thanks for any help.
Jim
Heading to Washington in late May for my first-ever visit there. I'll be travelling with my wife.
From what I read, it looks like it's sensible to take the Metro with our baggage to downtown Washington? We'll likely have two medium-sized roller suitcases (too large to carry on board, so checked) between us, plus our carry-ons (laptop bag and camera bag for me, backpack and purse for my wife).
We managed to take all this baggage plus a camera tripod and a large checked suitcase on the London Underground Piccadilly Line from Heathrow to Earl's Court station in Kensington, so we're not entirely alien to riding subways with luggage, but when you board at Heathrow the train is essentially empty and there are special areas to put your luggage. We put our suitcases there and were able to sit right beside them for the 45-minute ride to Earl's Court.
Does this make sense?
We'll probably be taking Amtrak to Philadelphia after a week and flying out of PHL so the return trip isn't really a concern.
Thanks for any help.
Jim
Jan 22, 2012, 3:26 pm
#69
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: DCA
Programs: Hyatt Globalist, Delta SM, Marriott Plat , Hilton Gold, Hertz 5*, IHG Spire
Posts: 259
Hi all,
Heading to Washington in late May for my first-ever visit there. I'll be travelling with my wife.
From what I read, it looks like it's sensible to take the Metro with our baggage to downtown Washington? We'll likely have two medium-sized roller suitcases (too large to carry on board, so checked) between us, plus our carry-ons (laptop bag and camera bag for me, backpack and purse for my wife).
We managed to take all this baggage plus a camera tripod and a large checked suitcase on the London Underground Piccadilly Line from Heathrow to Earl's Court station in Kensington, so we're not entirely alien to riding subways with luggage, but when you board at Heathrow the train is essentially empty and there are special areas to put your luggage. We put our suitcases there and were able to sit right beside them for the 45-minute ride to Earl's Court.
Does this make sense?
We'll probably be taking Amtrak to Philadelphia after a week and flying out of PHL so the return trip isn't really a concern.
Thanks for any help.
Jim
Heading to Washington in late May for my first-ever visit there. I'll be travelling with my wife.
From what I read, it looks like it's sensible to take the Metro with our baggage to downtown Washington? We'll likely have two medium-sized roller suitcases (too large to carry on board, so checked) between us, plus our carry-ons (laptop bag and camera bag for me, backpack and purse for my wife).
We managed to take all this baggage plus a camera tripod and a large checked suitcase on the London Underground Piccadilly Line from Heathrow to Earl's Court station in Kensington, so we're not entirely alien to riding subways with luggage, but when you board at Heathrow the train is essentially empty and there are special areas to put your luggage. We put our suitcases there and were able to sit right beside them for the 45-minute ride to Earl's Court.
Does this make sense?
We'll probably be taking Amtrak to Philadelphia after a week and flying out of PHL so the return trip isn't really a concern.
Thanks for any help.
Jim
You should be fine. The Metro won't be too busy going into DC. Where in DC are you going? Its always a pain transferring lines with a lot of luggage. Also it depends what time you'll be on the Metro.
Jan 22, 2012, 7:06 pm
#70
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: YQR
Programs: NEXUS; alas, no status anymore.
Posts: 1,181
We'll be flying on our anniversary so if I can arrange it (flights not yet booked), we'll get into town by mid-afternoon so we have time to go somewhere nice for dinner. I suppose if we are riding the Metro, I should probably try to be in town before 3.
Jan 22, 2012, 7:56 pm
#71
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Washington, DC
Programs: US-CP, UA, Marriott Rewards, HHonors, Avis,
Posts: 4,549
definitely try to be in town by 3, as rush hour on the Metro can be a challenge with baggage.
Jan 23, 2012, 9:04 am
#72
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: YQR
Programs: NEXUS; alas, no status anymore.
Posts: 1,181
Jan 23, 2012, 10:53 am
#73
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: DCA
Programs: Hyatt Globalist, Delta SM, Marriott Plat , Hilton Gold, Hertz 5*, IHG Spire
Posts: 259
Enjoy DC!
Jan 23, 2012, 3:25 pm
#74
Join Date: May 2009
Location: Washington, DC
Programs: UA 1K 1MM, AA, DL
Posts: 7,418
I commend you for using Metro, but unless money is a serious object, the $20 cab ride may be worth considering, as compared to the $6-7 metro ride.
Jan 23, 2012, 3:57 pm
#75
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Washington, DC
Programs: US-CP, UA, Marriott Rewards, HHonors, Avis,
Posts: 4,549
I'd have to agree. Metro has had a LOT of trouble with escalators lately, and I'd hate to have to hike up the DuPont escalator any day; if I were stuck at the bottom with baggage, I'd probably pay the first willing stranger $20 a bag to haul them up to the top for me! There is elevator service but the wait can be pretty long, as the elevators weren't designed to take full trains of people up to the surface. Chances are, the escalator will be just fine on your visit, but on the chance that it's not, $20 is a really small price to pay to not have to deal with those stairs with luggage.