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CLE → MCI
Which side of the plane to sit from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (Cleveland) to Kansas City International Airport (Kansas City)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the best vantage point for the major metropolitan landmarks along the route, including the Indianapolis skyline and the iconic St. Louis Gateway Arch during the Mississippi River crossing.
Indianapolis Downtown
A clear view of the Indiana state capital's dense urban core and the nearby Motor Speedway.
St. Louis Gateway Arch
The world-famous stainless steel monument is often visible as the plane traverses the Mississippi River.
Mississippi River
Witness the massive scale of the river that divides the Eastern and Western United States.
Missouri Farmlands
Intricate patterns of agricultural grids and rural homesteads throughout the central state.
Sit on the left to avoid the harsh northern glare during midday flights. Keep your eyes peeled roughly 60-70 minutes into the flight for the Mississippi River crossing; the Gateway Arch is easiest to spot if the flight path tracks slightly south of the river's main bend.
Lake Erie Shoreline
Immediate views of the Great Lake's coastline and Cleveland's waterfront shortly after takeoff.
Northern Indiana Suburbs
Aerial perspectives of the sprawling residential developments and industrial zones of the Rust Belt.
Missouri River Meanders
The winding loops of the Missouri River become highly visible during the final descent into Kansas City.
Distant Chicago
On exceptionally clear days, the distant silhouette of the Chicago skyline may be visible to the far north.
The right side is ideal for early-morning departures to catch the sunrise reflecting off Lake Erie. During the approach into MCI, this side frequently provides the best views of the Missouri River's natural curves and the rural landscape surrounding the airport.
Distance: 1,114 km (692 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min
Departure: CLE (41.4117012024, -81.8498001099)
Arrival: MCI (39.2976, -94.713898)
Route Type: Domestic
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