Loading map...
DEN → CID
Which side of the plane to sit from Denver International Airport (Denver) to The Eastern Iowa Airport (Cedar Rapids)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this eastbound flight as it offers a spectacular view of the northern Front Range and Longs Peak during departure from Denver, while avoiding the direct glare of the southern sun for most of the journey.
Front Range Mountains
Breathtaking views of the snow-capped Rocky Mountains, specifically Longs Peak, during the initial climb out of Denver.
Jeppesen Terminal
The iconic white fabric tents of the DEN terminal are clearly visible from the air shortly after takeoff.
South Platte River
Observe the winding path of the river as it meanders through the arid plains of northeastern Colorado.
Nebraska Sandhills
Distant glimpses of the unique grass-stabilized sand dunes of north-central Nebraska.
Missouri River Crossing
A prominent geographic border between Nebraska and Iowa, featuring rich floodplains and industrial infrastructure.
Book a window seat on the left (Port) side to capture the best mountain shots during the first 10 minutes of flight. For morning departures, this side provides soft, direct light on the landscape, while afternoon flights benefit from being in the shade of the aircraft, reducing window glare. Look for the transition from Colorado's brown high plains to Iowa's deep green cornfields.
Denver Skyline
If departing on certain runways, you get a clear view of the downtown skyscrapers with the mountains as a backdrop.
Interstate 80 Corridor
The massive logistics artery of the United States is frequently visible as the flight parallels this highway.
Iowa Crop Art
The intricate geometric patterns of massive corn and soybean fields create a 'quilt' effect as you approach Cedar Rapids.
Omaha Metro Area
Views of the largest city in Nebraska and the surrounding suburban sprawl near the Missouri River.
The right side is ideal for travelers who enjoy seeing the geometric 'flyover country' patterns and the bustling activity of the I-80 corridor. Note that on afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side of the aircraft, which may require closing the window shade to stay cool. In winter, look for the 'snow shadows' created by windbreaks and farmstead buildings.
Distance: 1,112 km (691 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min
Departure: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)
Arrival: CID (41.88470077514648, -91.71080017089844)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.