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GDV destination photo
BIL destination photo

GDVBIL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most dramatic views of the Makoshika State Park badlands immediately after takeoff and stays closer to the scenic meanders of the Yellowstone River throughout the journey.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏜️

Makoshika State Park

Breathtaking views of Montana's largest state park, featuring prehistoric badland formations and jagged caprocks right after departure.

🌊

Yellowstone River Curves

Continuous views of the longest undammed river in the contiguous US as it snakes through the prairie landscape.

🏘️

Miles City

A clear view of this historic cow town located at the confluence of the Tongue and Yellowstone rivers.

🏔️

Bighorn Mountains

On clear days, the distant snow-capped peaks of the Bighorn Range are visible on the southern horizon approaching Billings.

🗿

Pompeys Pillar

The massive sandstone outcrop where William Clark carved his name in 1806, visible shortly before the descent begins.

Sit on the left for the best morning light on the badlands. During late afternoon flights, the sun will be behind you, providing excellent contrast and shadow depth for photography of the river valley and rock formations.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌾

The Great Plains

An uninterrupted view of the 'Big Sky' horizon, showcasing the vast expanse of Montana's agricultural heartland.

⛰️

Bull Mountains

Low-lying, pine-covered hills that break up the flat horizon as you approach the Billings area from the north.

🧱

The Rimrocks

Dramatic 80-foot sandstone cliffs that surround the city of Billings, offering a unique perspective during the final descent.

✈️

Logan International Approach

The airport is situated on top of a mesa; the right side offers a great view of the drop-off into the city below during landing.

Choose the right side if you want to see the dramatic geography of the Billings Rimrocks during the landing phase. This side is also less likely to have direct sun glare during mid-day flights heading southwest.

Top Activities in Billings
Route Information

Distance: 322 km (200 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 32 min

Departure: GDV (47.13869858, -104.8069992)

Arrival: BIL (45.80770111083984, -108.54299926757812)

Route Type: Domestic

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