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DEN → LBF
Which side of the plane to sit from Denver International Airport (Denver) to North Platte Regional Airport Lee Bird Field (North Platte)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Rocky Mountain Front Range immediately after takeoff from Denver, providing a dramatic contrast against the Great Plains.
Front Range Rockies
Uninterrupted views of the snow-capped peaks including Longs Peak and the Continental Divide shortly after departure.
Jeppesen Terminal
A unique aerial perspective of DEN's iconic white fabric roof designed to mimic the mountains.
Pawnee National Grassland
Vast stretches of native shortgrass prairie that define the transition into the High Plains.
Geometric Crop Circles
Intricate patterns created by center-pivot irrigation systems common across northeastern Colorado.
Platte River Valley
The meandering path of the South Platte River as it winds through the agricultural landscape.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct eastern sun glare. The mountain views are most spectacular in the first 10 minutes after takeoff; keep your camera ready for the steep climb out of Denver.
Denver Skyline
A distant view of downtown Denver's skyscrapers against the mountain backdrop if the flight path tracks east.
Barr Lake State Park
A large reservoir known for its wildlife and bald eagle nesting sites visible near the airport.
Union Pacific Bailey Yard
The world's largest rail yard, located in North Platte, featuring thousands of rail cars and massive locomotive facilities.
Sutherland Reservoir
A prominent body of water used for cooling and recreation just west of the North Platte airport.
I-80 Corridor
The historic transcontinental highway and rail route that follows the Great Platte River Road.
The right side is essential for train enthusiasts; as you descend into North Platte, the Bailey Yard is a massive industrial landmark. Evening flights on this side offer a beautiful sunset view over the horizon.
Distance: 365 km (227 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 37 min
Departure: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)
Arrival: LBF (41.12620163, -100.6839981)
Route Type: Domestic
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