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MCI → ABQ
Which side of the plane to sit from Kansas City International Airport (Kansas City) to Albuquerque International Sunport (Albuquerque)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers a more dramatic transition from the rolling Kansas prairies to the rugged landscapes of the Southern Rockies and the iconic Sandia Mountains during the descent into Albuquerque.
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Missouri River
Visible immediately after takeoff from MCI, marking the border between Kansas and Missouri.
Sangre de Cristo Mountains
The southernmost subrange of the Rocky Mountains, often snow-capped in winter and spring.
Capulin Volcano
A near-perfect symmetrical cinder cone volcano located in northeastern New Mexico.
Canadian River Canyons
Dramatic erosion and mesa formations visible as the terrain begins to rise in elevation.
Sandia Mountains
A spectacular view of the rugged west face of the Sandias as the aircraft descends into the Sunport.
The right side is the prime choice for afternoon flights to witness the sunset or the 'Alpenglow' effect on the Sandia Mountains. Keep a sharp eye out for Capulin Volcano about 20-30 minutes before landing; its circular crater is unmistakable from 30,000 feet. For the best view of the mountains on arrival, a window seat behind the wing is recommended to avoid obstruction.
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Flint Hills
An ancient tallgrass prairie ecosystem featuring rolling hills and unique topography in eastern Kansas.
Wichita Skyline
The largest city in Kansas is often visible as a distant urban cluster to the south of the flight path.
Arkansas River
A major tributary of the Mississippi that meanders across the central plains.
Tucumcari Basin
Broad desert vistas as the flight enters the arid environment of eastern New Mexico.
Rio Grande Valley
Aerial views of the river valley and the sprawling Albuquerque metropolitan area during the final approach.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you and avoid glare. This side is particularly scenic during nighttime arrivals, as you can see the expansive grid of Albuquerque's city lights stretching toward the southern horizon. Look for the glint of the Arkansas River roughly 40 minutes into the flight.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,154 km (717 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 32 min
Departure: MCI (39.2976, -94.713898)
Arrival: ABQ (35.040199, -106.609001)
Route Type: Domestic
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