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IAH → GRR
Which side of the plane to sit from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston) to Gerald R. Ford International Airport (Grand Rapids)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, as well as the beautiful shoreline of Lake Michigan and the Indiana Dunes during the final descent.
The Great River Confluence
The massive junction where the Ohio River flows into the Mississippi River near Cairo, Illinois.
Gary Waterfront
Massive industrial infrastructure and steel mills lining the southern tip of Lake Michigan.
Indiana Dunes
The unique sandy shorelines and national park vistas along the southern edge of Lake Michigan.
Michigan Fruit Belt
The dense orchards and vineyards characteristic of the West Michigan landscape near Grand Rapids.
Distant Chicago Skyline
On clear days, the Sears Tower and Chicago skyline are often visible across the water to the west.
The right side is best for morning flights to see the sun glinting off the Great Lakes. Watch closely during the last 20 minutes of the flight; the approach often follows the Lake Michigan shoreline, providing excellent views of the dunes and coastal towns.
East Texas Piney Woods
Dense, rolling pine forests stretching across the Texas-Louisiana border shortly after departure.
Ozark National Forest
The rugged, ancient terrain of the Ozark Mountains featuring deep river valleys and limestone bluffs.
Illinois Heartland
An expansive geometric patchwork of the American Midwest's primary agricultural belt.
Western Horizon
Dramatic sunset views over the Great Plains if flying on a late afternoon or evening departure.
Sit on the left for softer lighting during morning flights to avoid the direct sun. This side is ideal for spotting the winding Arkansas River and the distant suburban sprawl of St. Louis if the flight path tracks slightly westward.
Distance: 1,679 km (1,043 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 14 min
Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Arrival: GRR (42.88079834, -85.52279663)
Route Type: Domestic
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