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AZA → PIA
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix-Mesa-Gateway Airport (Mesa) to General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport (Peoria)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an unparalleled view of the Superstition Mountains immediately upon departure from Mesa, followed by a more scenic approach over the Illinois River valley into Peoria.
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Superstition Mountains
Iconic, jagged volcanic peaks that dominate the horizon immediately east of Mesa-Gateway.
Roosevelt Lake
A deep blue reservoir nestled in the Tonto Basin, visible as the plane gains altitude.
Gila National Forest
Vast stretches of wilderness in New Mexico featuring deep canyons and forested ridges.
St. Louis Skyline
On southern flight corridors, the Gateway Arch may be visible in the distance as you cross into Illinois.
Illinois River Valley
Lush wetlands and winding river bends that lead directly into the Peoria metropolitan area.
Ensure you are in a window seat away from the wing to capture the Superstition Mountains at takeoff. Late afternoon flights provide dramatic long shadows over the Arizona terrain, enhancing the depth of the canyons.
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Tonto National Forest
Expansive views of the high desert and rugged canyons of Central Arizona shortly after takeoff.
Mogollon Rim
The dramatic southern edge of the Colorado Plateau, showing a stark transition from desert to forest.
Painted Desert
A glimpse of the multi-colored badlands of Northern Arizona if the flight path tracks slightly north.
Mississippi River
The massive waterway marking the transition from the Great Plains into the Midwest.
Illinois Heartland
A patchwork quilt of agricultural fields and small farm towns during the final descent phase.
Sit on this side for the best chance to see the Mogollon Rim transition. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, highlighting the desert colors without glare.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,108 km (1,310 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 49 min
Departure: AZA (33.30780029, -111.6549988)
Arrival: PIA (40.664199829100006, -89.6932983398)
Route Type: Domestic
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