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IAH → MCI
Which side of the plane to sit from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston) to Kansas City International Airport (Kansas City)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of East Texas piney woods, several large reservoirs on the Texas-Oklahoma border, and a more dramatic approach over the Missouri River into Kansas City.
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East Texas Piney Woods
Dense, dark green forests north of Houston provide a sharp contrast to the urban landscape.
Lake Texoma
A massive reservoir on the Texas-Oklahoma border with a distinctively jagged shoreline.
The Flint Hills
The last remaining tallgrass prairie ecosystem, showing beautiful rolling terrain in eastern Kansas.
Missouri River
The wide, silty Missouri River is a primary landmark during the final descent into MCI.
Kansas City Skyline
If approaching from the south, look for the downtown buildings and the iconic Union Station.
The right side is preferred for morning flights to avoid the harsh afternoon glare. It offers better views of the water features including Lake Houston and the Eufaula Lake area. During the descent into MCI, the right side usually provides a clearer view of the Missouri River's bends and the urban sprawl of the Kansas City Northland.
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West Houston Suburbs
View the sprawling suburban development of Katy and Cypress immediately after takeoff.
Brazos River
The winding path of the Brazos River creates intricate loops visible across the Texas landscape.
Wichita Skyline
Depending on the flight path, the largest city in Kansas is often visible to the west.
Kansas Wind Farms
Massive arrays of wind turbines dot the plains of southern Kansas, appearing like white toothpicks from altitude.
Agricultural Quilt
The classic American heartland patchwork of square green and brown fields stretching to the horizon.
Sit on the left for evening flights to experience the sunset over the Great Plains. This side is also excellent for spotting the 'center-pivot' irrigation circles that define the agriculture of the region. Keep an eye out for distant thunderheads during spring and summer, as this route crosses the heart of Tornado Alley.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,037 km (644 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 23 min
Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Arrival: MCI (39.2976, -94.713898)
Route Type: Domestic
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