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CMI → DFW
Which side of the plane to sit from University of Illinois Willard Airport (Champaign) to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (Dallas-Fort Worth)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft typically offers a superior view of the St. Louis skyline, including the Gateway Arch, and more direct views of the rugged Ozark Plateau and Lake Texoma.
St. Louis Gateway Arch
Depending on the specific ATC routing, you often get a clear view of the iconic Arch and the downtown St. Louis waterfront.
The Ozark Mountains
Enjoy the most dramatic terrain of the trip with the deep valleys and limestone bluffs of the Missouri Ozarks.
Lake Texoma
A massive reservoir on the border of Oklahoma and Texas, easily identifiable by its distinct 'wishbone' shape.
North Texas Suburbs
Views of the rapidly growing Frisco and Plano areas, including the Star in Frisco and Legacy West developments.
Lewisville Lake
A final landmark just before touchdown at DFW, providing a scenic water contrast to the urban sprawl.
The right side is the prime spot for afternoon and sunset flights, offering beautiful golden hour views over the Missouri hills. Watch for the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers shortly after passing Champaign's airspace.
Illinois Prairie Grids
Immediately after takeoff, view the perfectly rectangular agricultural patterns and small farming communities of Central Illinois.
Mississippi River Crossing
Watch the massive, winding Mississippi River mark the border between Missouri and Illinois as you head south-southwest.
Ouachita National Forest
As you pass through Arkansas, the landscape transforms into dense, rolling green hills and timberland.
Dallas City Lights
On a southern approach into DFW, the left side often provides a distant view of the Dallas downtown skyline and Reunion Tower.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is excellent for seeing the expansive river systems of the Mid-South. Keep an eye out for the Arkansas River near Little Rock about midway through the flight.
Distance: 1,114 km (692 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min
Departure: CMI (40.03919983, -88.27809906)
Arrival: DFW (32.896801, -97.038002)
Route Type: Domestic
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