Loading map...
BIS → AZA
Which side of the plane to sit from Bismarck Municipal Airport (Bismarck) to Phoenix-Mesa-Gateway Airport (Mesa)?
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.
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.
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.
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
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.