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MCI destination photo
CUN destination photo

MCICUN

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior for the arrival phase, offering iconic views of the turquoise Caribbean waters, Isla Mujeres, and the Cancun Hotel Zone upon descent.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏞️

Ozark Plateau

Early flight views of the rolling hills and deep green forests of Missouri and Arkansas shortly after departure.

🌊

Mississippi River Delta

The vast network of waterways and sediment plumes where the mighty river meets the Gulf of Mexico.

🏝️

Isla Mujeres

Clear views of the narrow island and its surrounding shallow reef systems during the final descent.

🏙️

Hotel Zone

The spectacular 7-shaped tourist corridor situated between the turquoise sea and the Nichupte Lagoon.

For morning flights, the sun will be on this side initially, so bring sunglasses. The arrival is the main event; as the plane turns for landing, usually onto Runway 12, the shallow waters near the coast provide incredible color contrasts. Sit behind the wing for an unobstructed view of the coastline.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🛶

Arkansas River

Deep bends and agricultural patterns along the river valley in the south-central United States.

🏗️

Gulf Oil Rigs

Visible as small metallic structures and occasional gas flares in the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

🌳

Yucatan Peninsula

The dense, flat tropical jungle of southeastern Mexico appearing as a solid green carpet upon landfall.

🏖️

Riviera Maya Coast

Distant views of the white sand beaches stretching south toward Playa del Carmen and Cozumel.

The right side is ideal for afternoon or sunset flights to avoid direct morning glare and enjoy the golden hour over the Gulf. Keep an eye out for Cozumel if the flight path takes a southerly approach vector. It offers a broader view of the vast Yucatan wilderness before touchdown.

Top Activities in Cancun
Route Information

Distance: 2,164 km (1,345 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 53 min

Departure: MCI (39.2976, -94.713898)

Arrival: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)

Route Type: International

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