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BIS destination photo
AZA destination photo

BISAZA

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior sequence of geological landmarks, transitioning from the Black Hills of South Dakota and the snow-capped Colorado Rockies to the volcanic peaks of Northern Arizona and the dramatic Mogollon Rim escarpment.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🌲

Black Hills

Dense pine forests and dark granite peaks of South Dakota, including the general vicinity of Mount Rushmore.

🏔️

Colorado Rockies

Unparalleled views of the Continental Divide, featuring massive snow-dusted summits and high-altitude basins.

🌋

San Francisco Peaks

Arizona's highest mountains, including Humphreys Peak, visible near the city of Flagstaff.

🌲

Mogollon Rim

The massive geological fault line and escarpment that defines the transition from the Colorado Plateau to the desert.

🏜️

Verde Valley

Striking red rock canyons and lush river valley views as the aircraft descends toward the Salt River Valley.

The right side is the definitive choice for mountain enthusiasts. You will pass west of the highest Colorado peaks and directly by the San Francisco Peaks. Afternoon flights will face the sun, so polarized sunglasses are recommended. Look for the stark contrast between the high plateau forests and the low desert floor during the final 20 minutes of flight.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Missouri River

Visible immediately after takeoff, tracing the winding path of the 'Big Muddy' through the North Dakota plains.

🌾

Great Plains Mosaic

Expansive views of Nebraska's agricultural geometry and the transition into the high desert plateaus.

⛰️

Spanish Peaks

Distinctive twin volcanic peaks standing as sentinels on the eastern edge of the Colorado Rockies.

🏜️

Painted Desert

Vibrant layers of siltstone and shale creating a multi-colored landscape across Northeast Arizona.

🌵

Superstition Mountains

Rugged, jagged peaks that dominate the horizon during the final approach into the Phoenix-Mesa area.

Opt for the left side on morning flights to keep the sun behind you for better photography. This side provides an excellent perspective of the New Mexico-Arizona border's red rock formations. During the descent, keep your eyes peeled for the Canyon Lake and the steep cliffs of the Tonto National Forest.

Top Activities in Mesa
Route Information

Distance: 1,758 km (1,092 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 21 min

Departure: BIS (46.77270126342773, -100.74600219726562)

Arrival: AZA (33.30780029, -111.6549988)

Route Type: Domestic

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