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LGA → DSM
Which side of the plane to sit from La Guardia Airport (New York) to Des Moines International Airport (Des Moines)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a premier vantage point for the Manhattan skyline shortly after takeoff from LGA and generally provides a more direct view of the Des Moines cityscape and State Capitol during the arrival phase.
Search flights from LGA to DSM
Manhattan Skyline
Breathtaking views of the Empire State Building, Central Park, and One World Trade Center during the climb out of LaGuardia.
Appalachian Mountains
The distinctive folded ridges and lush valleys of central Pennsylvania stretch across the horizon.
Midwest Patchwork
Intricate geometric patterns of farmland across Indiana and Illinois, showcasing the heart of the American Breadbasket.
Mississippi River
A major crossing of the 'Mighty Mississippi' as the flight enters Iowa, often near Burlington or Keokuk.
Iowa State Capitol
The iconic 23-karat gold-domed capitol building is frequently visible to the south during the final approach into DSM.
Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to keep the sun at your back. During departure, be ready immediately as the NYC skyline appears within 2-5 minutes. On arrival into Des Moines, watch for the downtown cluster and the Saylorville Lake area to the north if the plane loops around for a southern landing.
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Hudson River Palisades
Views of the dramatic cliffs and the winding Hudson River valley as the aircraft turns west toward the interior.
Great Lakes Glimpse
On clearer days, the southern horizon of Lake Erie and the Cleveland metro area can be spotted to the north.
Industrial Heartland
Aerial perspectives of the massive manufacturing plants and shipping infrastructure of the Rust Belt.
The Quad Cities
The interconnected urban area of Moline, Rock Island, and Davenport spanning the Mississippi River.
Agricultural Horizons
Vast stretches of Iowa corn and soybean fields that change color dramatically from bright green in summer to gold in fall.
The right side is excellent for evening flights to catch the sunset over the western plains. It offers better views of the Hudson Valley during departure. Keep an eye out for the many wind farms in eastern Iowa, which are particularly visible from this side during the descent.
Book Hotels in Des MoinesDistance: 1,655 km (1,028 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 12 min
Departure: LGA (40.77719879, -73.87259674)
Arrival: DSM (41.53400039672852, -93.66310119628906)
Route Type: Domestic
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