Loading map...
BIL â AZA
Which side of the plane to sit from Billings Logan International Airport (Billings) to Phoenix-Mesa-Gateway Airport (Mesa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a front-row seat to the most iconic landscapes of the American West, including distant views of Yellowstone, the red rock cathedrals of Utah, and a spectacular vantage point for the Grand Canyon and Flagstaff peaks.
Yellowstone & Tetons
Depending on the specific air corridor, the snow-capped Grand Tetons and the steaming geothermal basins of Yellowstone are visible on the western horizon.
Arches & Canyonlands
Look down over southern Utah to see the intricate networks of canyons, mesas, and natural arches carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers.
The Grand Canyon
The star attraction; the flight path often provides a sweeping perspective of the canyon's immense scale and the winding Colorado River far below.
San Francisco Peaks
Soaring above Flagstaff, Humphreys Peak (Arizona's highest point) stands as a prominent volcanic landmark before your descent begins.
Phoenix Valley
The vast sprawl of the Valley of the Sun opens up as the plane turns for the final approach into Mesa-Gateway.
The right side is the definitive choice for landmarks. For the best lighting on the Grand Canyon, choose an afternoon flight when the sun illuminates the canyon walls from the west. However, be aware that afternoon flights in summer can be bumpier due to desert thermal activity. Ensure your window is clean to capture the high-contrast colors of the Utah-Arizona border.
Bighorn Mountains
Shortly after takeoff, view the rugged peaks and deep canyons of the Bighorn National Forest stretching across northern Wyoming.
Flaming Gorge
The brilliant green waters of the Flaming Gorge Reservoir contrast sharply against the surrounding red canyon walls near the Wyoming-Utah border.
Painted Desert
As you enter Arizona, the landscape shifts into vibrant hues of lavender, red, and orange across the expansive Painted Desert region.
Superstition Mountains
On final approach to Mesa, the legendary and jagged Superstition Mountains provide a dramatic desert backdrop to the east.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is particularly rewarding during the descent into Mesa, as you pass closer to the Tonto National Forest and the Salt River chain of lakes. Keep an eye out for the White Mountains in the distance while over northern Arizona.
Distance: 1,415 km (879 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 53 min
Departure: BIL (45.80770111083984, -108.54299926757812)
Arrival: AZA (33.30780029, -111.6549988)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.