"O. Sami Saydjari" wrote in message ...
Other likely airports seem to be Manassas,
Gaithersburg, and College Park.

You will not be able to get into College Park. It's reserved to based pilots
who have gone through the requisite rectal probing by the TSA. DCA is
right out (as you surmised).

Manassas and Gaithersburg are good ideas. They have no fees. You can
get a commuter train from HEF if you are travelling at the right time. GAI is
a cab ride to the Metro. HEF can arrange you rental cars (probably GAI too,
but I've never done it there).

Another option is Dulles (IAD). The landing fee isn't too bad (~$8 for small)
fry. Both FBO's will now ream you for a service charge given the chance (you
should call them and ask what your options are).

Remember that all of these airports are inside the DC ADIZ. This means you must
either come in IFR, or follow the VFR procedures (file flight plan, and obtain a
discrete squawk from Potomac Approach prior to entering the area).