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DEN → KOA
Which side of the plane to sit from Denver International Airport (Denver) to Ellison Onizuka Kona International At Keahole Airport (Kona)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic views of the Southwest's canyonlands and a superior perspective of the Big Island's volcanic architecture during the final descent.
Front Range Rockies
Immediate views of Pikes Peak and the southern Colorado Rocky Mountains after departure from Denver.
Canyonlands & Grand Canyon
Aerial perspective of the intricate river systems and red rock formations of Utah and Northern Arizona.
Pacific Transition
The dramatic shift from the California coastline to the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean.
Mauna Loa
The massive, gently sloping shield volcano dominates the view as the plane nears the Big Island.
South Kona Coast
Bird's-eye view of the black lava fields and turquoise bays of the Kealakekua region during arrival.
For the most comfortable viewing on this westbound flight, the left side (Port) stays out of the direct sun for the majority of the journey. Keep your camera ready about 20-30 minutes before landing to capture the scale of Mauna Loa against the coastline. Winter flights often showcase snow-capped peaks in both the Rockies and occasionally on the Hawaiian summits.
Northern Rockies
Views of the rugged Continental Divide and high-altitude wilderness areas of Western Colorado.
Great Salt Lake
The shimmering white salt flats and the unique colors of the Great Salt Lake are often visible to the north.
Sierra Nevada Range
The jagged granite peaks of California, including the area near Yosemite National Park.
Mauna Kea
Look for the world-class astronomical observatories perched on the summit of the Big Island's highest peak.
Kohala Coast
Beautiful views of the luxury resorts and white sand beaches of the northern coastline on final approach.
The right side (Starboard) is excellent for spotting Mauna Kea and its telescopes. However, be aware that on afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, which can create significant glare and heat. If flying during the day, keep your window shade down during the mid-flight ocean crossing to keep the cabin cool before opening it for the Hawaiian landfall.
Distance: 5,351 km (3,325 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 18 min
Departure: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)
Arrival: KOA (19.738783, -156.045603)
Route Type: Domestic
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