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DEN → BHM
Which side of the plane to sit from Denver International Airport (Denver) to Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (Birmingham)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior panoramic view of the Rocky Mountains receding behind the aircraft upon departure and offers the most dramatic views of the Mississippi River's meandering oxbows near Memphis.
Rocky Mountain Front Range
A breathtaking view of the snow-capped peaks stretching north toward Wyoming as the plane climbs out of Denver.
Great Plains Patchwork
Vibrant circular irrigation patterns and the geometric grid of Kansas farmland create a living quilt below.
Mississippi River
The massive, winding waterway marks the transition into the American South, often featuring heavy barge traffic.
Bankhead National Forest
Dense, rolling green canopies of the 'Land of a Thousand Waterfalls' in North Alabama during the initial descent.
Northern Birmingham Industrial
A clear view of the historic iron and steel infrastructure that earned the city the nickname 'The Magic City'.
For morning departures, the left side is shaded, protecting you from harsh southern sun glare. Keep your window shade up for the first 15 minutes to see the Front Range, and watch for the Mississippi River approximately 90 minutes into the flight. In autumn, the forests of Alabama offer vibrant fall foliage visible during the descent.
Jeppesen Terminal
The iconic white fabric peaks of Denver's airport terminal are best viewed from the right side during taxi and takeoff.
Wichita and Oklahoma Border
Glimpses of the sprawling midwestern urban centers and the transition into the more rugged terrain of the South.
The Ozark Mountains
The rugged, forested highlands of Arkansas provide a textured landscape with deep valleys and ridges.
Little Rock Skyline
The capital city of Arkansas and the sweeping curves of the Arkansas River are often visible to the south.
Vulcan Statue
During the final approach into BHM, look for the world's largest cast-iron statue standing atop Red Mountain.
Choose the right side for afternoon flights if you enjoy golden hour lighting across the cabin. This side provides an excellent view of the Arkansas River valley. If the flight arrives from the west, the right side is generally better for spotting the downtown Birmingham skyline and the landmark Vulcan Statue just before touchdown.
Distance: 1,740 km (1,081 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 19 min
Departure: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)
Arrival: BHM (33.56290054, -86.75350189)
Route Type: Domestic
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