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MAF → DEN
Which side of the plane to sit from Midland International Airport (Midland) to Denver International Airport (Denver)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic transition from the flat Permian Basin to the majestic Rocky Mountain Front Range, including iconic peaks and the Denver skyline.
Permian Basin Oil Fields
Immediately after takeoff, witness the vast network of oil rigs and pumpjacks that define the West Texas landscape.
Llano Estacado
Fly over the 'Staked Plains,' one of the largest and flattest mesas in North America, stretching toward the horizon.
Pikes Peak
As you enter Colorado, the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak dominates the view to the west near Colorado Springs.
Garden of the Gods
Look for the jagged red sandstone formations protruding from the earth just west of the flight path.
Denver Skyline
On final descent into DEN, the downtown skyscrapers are often visible against the backdrop of the Rockies.
Sit on the left (port side) for the most dramatic mountain views. Morning flights are superior as the sun illuminates the eastern face of the Rockies, providing excellent photo opportunities without glare. Seats behind the wing are recommended to keep the mountain horizon unobstructed.
Midland-Odessa View
Capture a bird's-eye view of the twin cities' urban footprint and industrial centers shortly after departure.
Agricultural Circles
Observe the intricate geometric patterns of center-pivot irrigation systems across the Texas Panhandle and Colorado border.
Canadian River Valley
The winding riverbed of the Canadian River cuts a distinct path through the arid landscape of northern Texas.
Great Plains Expanse
View the transition from the dry scrubland of Texas to the vast golden wheat fields of the high eastern plains.
Jeppesen Terminal
During the final approach, look for the iconic white peaked roof of the DEN terminal, designed to mimic the snowy Rockies.
The right side is ideal for sunrise views on early morning departures from Midland. While it lacks the mountain drama of the left side, it offers a peaceful view of the high plains. During the final turn into Denver, this side often provides a better perspective of the airport's massive airfield layout.
Distance: 908 km (564 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 31 min
Departure: MAF (31.9424991607666, -102.2020034790039)
Arrival: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)
Route Type: Domestic
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