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AZA â BIS
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix-Mesa-Gateway Airport (Mesa) to Bismarck Municipal Airport (Bismarck)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior journey through the geological diversity of the American West, featuring the vibrant colors of the Painted Desert and the distinct formations of the Black Hills and Badlands.
Superstition Mountains
Dramatic, jagged volcanic peaks immediately visible to the east upon departure from Mesa Gateway.
The Painted Desert
A sprawling landscape of multicolored siltstone and shale in the Four Corners region, appearing in hues of lavender and red.
San Juan Mountains
Vast views of the high-altitude, snowy peaks of southwestern Colorado, including some of the state's highest summits.
The Black Hills
The dark, forested granite peaks of western South Dakota, standing in stark contrast to the surrounding plains.
South Dakota Badlands
Unique eroded spires and buttes that look like a moonscape from 35,000 feet, particularly striking in early morning light.
Great Plains Patchwork
The geometric beauty of circular irrigation fields and vast ranch lands across the Dakotas.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the glare of the sun. This side provides the best opportunity to see Mount Rushmore's general vicinity (though the monument itself is small) and the incredible transition from the desert Southwest to the northern prairies.
Phoenix Urban Basin
Bird's-eye view of the sprawling Phoenix-Mesa metropolitan area and the Salt River bed shortly after takeoff.
Mogollon Rim
The dramatic geological shelf that marks the edge of the Colorado Plateau, showcasing a sharp rise in elevation.
Lake Powell & Glen Canyon
Brilliant turquoise waters snaking through deep red sandstone canyons near the Arizona-Utah border.
Wind River Range
Distant views of the rugged, snow-capped peaks of western Wyoming as you traverse the high plains.
Missouri River Valley
The winding Missouri River provides a scenic backdrop as the plane begins its final approach into Bismarck.
Sit on the left if you are on a late afternoon flight to catch a spectacular sunset over the high desert and Rocky Mountain silhouettes. Keep an eye out for the unique 'comb' ridges of southern Utah and the vast expanses of the Wyoming prairie.
Distance: 1,758 km (1,092 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 21 min
Departure: AZA (33.30780029, -111.6549988)
Arrival: BIS (46.77270126342773, -100.74600219726562)
Route Type: Domestic
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