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GFK → AZA
Which side of the plane to sit from Grand Forks International Airport (Grand Forks) to Phoenix-Mesa-Gateway Airport (Mesa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular cross-section of the American West, featuring the Black Hills of South Dakota, the red rock formations of Utah, and a dramatic descent over the Superstition Mountains.
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The Black Hills
Dark, pine-covered mountains rising sharply from the surrounding South Dakota prairies.
Arches & Canyonlands
The deep oranges and reds of the Utah desert landscapes near Moab are visible in clear weather.
Lake Powell
The winding blue waters of the reservoir contrasted against stark desert canyons.
Sedona Red Rocks
Famous crimson sandstone formations and the lush Oak Creek Canyon near Flagstaff.
Superstition Mountains
Dramatic volcanic cliffs and jagged peaks that provide a stunning backdrop for the AZA landing.
The right side is premier for geological variety. On the descent into AZA, the plane often banks over the Tonto National Forest, offering incredible views of the Superstition Mountains. For late afternoon flights, this side will experience the sunset over the desert, though glare can be intense.
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Denver Skyline
Aerial views of the Mile High City and the sprawling Front Range urban corridor.
Pikes Peak
Look for the prominent 14,115-foot summit towering over Colorado Springs.
Sangre de Cristo Range
A long, narrow, and exceptionally straight mountain range stretching into New Mexico.
Mogollon Rim
The massive limestone and sandstone cliff that defines the edge of the Colorado Plateau.
San Tan Mountains
Small but rugged desert peaks visible just before the final approach into Mesa.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh western sun glare. You will get excellent views of the Continental Divide and the transition from the Great Plains to the Rockies. Watch for the geometric patterns of center-pivot irrigation in Nebraska.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,028 km (1,260 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 42 min
Departure: GFK (47.949299, -97.176102)
Arrival: AZA (33.30780029, -111.6549988)
Route Type: Domestic
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