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EWR → DSM
Which side of the plane to sit from Newark Liberty International Airport (Newark) to Des Moines International Airport (Des Moines)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a high probability of viewing the Manhattan skyline shortly after takeoff and the potential for glimpses of the Great Lakes and the Chicago skyline to the north during cruise.
Search flights from EWR to DSM
Manhattan Skyline
Iconic views of One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, and the Hudson River during the initial climb.
Port Newark
Unique perspective on the massive container ships and cranes of one of the world's busiest ports.
Chicago Horizon
On clear days, the distant skyscrapers of Chicago can often be seen across the flat plains to the north.
Des Moines Capitol
During the final approach into DSM, you may spot the distinctive gold-domed State Capitol building.
Sit on the right (usually seat A) for the best chance at the NYC skyline; look out the window within the first 3-5 minutes of flight. Morning flights are ideal for this side as the sun will be on the opposite side of the aircraft, providing perfect lighting for photography of the landscape and Great Lakes glimpses.
Book Hotels in Des MoinesDelaware River Valley
Bird's-eye views of the winding river separating New Jersey and Pennsylvania shortly after departure.
Appalachian Ridges
Dramatic view of the folded ridge-and-valley province of Central Pennsylvania, especially near Harrisburg.
The Corn Belt
Vast, colorful geometric patterns of the agricultural heartland across Indiana, Illinois, and into Iowa.
Mississippi River
Crossing the massive river boundary between Illinois and Iowa near the Quad Cities area.
Sit on the left (usually seat F) if you are flying an evening flight to catch the sunset, though glare can be intense. This side is excellent for seeing the geological ripple effects of the Appalachian Mountains. Use a window seat behind the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the patchwork farmland below.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,632 km (1,014 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 11 min
Departure: EWR (40.69250106811523, -74.168701171875)
Arrival: DSM (41.53400039672852, -93.66310119628906)
Route Type: Domestic
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