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MCI → HRO
Which side of the plane to sit from Kansas City International Airport (Kansas City) to Boone County Airport (Harrison)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more scenic perspective of the winding Lake of the Ozarks and the dense, rolling woodlands of the Mark Twain National Forest during the descent into the Ozark Plateau.
Independence & Lee's Summit
View the expansive eastern suburbs of the Kansas City metro area shortly after departure from MCI.
Lake of the Ozarks
The 'Magic Dragon' lake is visible with its incredibly serpentine shoreline and hundreds of private docks.
Mark Twain National Forest
Dense clusters of oak and hickory forests that define the rugged landscape of southern Missouri.
Pomme de Terre Lake
A distinct reservoir known for its unique 'mound' geography and clear waters.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh western sun glare. As you approach Harrison, watch for the transition from flat farmland to the ancient, eroded peaks of the Ozark Mountains. In autumn, the foliage on this side is spectacular between mid-October and early November.
Kansas City Skyline
A distant but clear view of the downtown KCMO skyline and the T-Mobile Center shortly after takeoff.
Harry S. Truman Reservoir
A massive body of water known for its rugged shoreline and significant flood control dams.
Stockton Lake
A pristine lake located further west, often visible on clear days as a bright blue patch on the horizon.
Springfield Metro
The largest city in the region, Springfield is often visible as you transition into the final leg of the flight.
Buffalo National River
Just south of the airport, the limestone bluffs of the nation's first national river begin to emerge.
Choose the right side for sunset flights to witness the sky turn purple over the Missouri plains. Keep an eye out for the Truman Dam, which is a massive engineering feat. This side often provides a better view of the Springfield-Branson National Airport if the flight path tracks slightly west.
Distance: 364 km (226 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 36 min
Departure: MCI (39.2976, -94.713898)
Arrival: HRO (36.26150131225586, -93.15470123291016)
Route Type: Domestic
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