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MCI → IAH
Which side of the plane to sit from Kansas City International Airport (Kansas City) to George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the Kansas City skyline immediately after takeoff and provides a better perspective of the lush East Texas lakes and the Trinity River during the descent into Houston.
Kansas City Skyline
Spectacular views of downtown Kansas City and the Power and Light District shortly after departing MCI.
Missouri River
Watch the winding Missouri River carve through the landscape as you head south out of the KC metro area.
Lake Eufaula
The largest lake in Oklahoma is often visible on the left side, showcasing its intricate, winding shoreline.
Piney Woods
As you enter Texas, the landscape shifts into the dense, green forests characteristic of the East Texas region.
Lake Houston
On the final approach to IAH, you will likely fly over or near Lake Houston, a major reservoir for the city.
Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun while enjoying the sunrise over the Missouri and Oklahoma plains. This side is also preferred for the best views of the Kansas City skyline during the initial climb.
Flint Hills
Early in the flight, catch glimpses of the rolling tallgrass prairie ecosystem of Eastern Kansas.
Arbuckle Mountains
Spot the ancient, weathered limestone ridges of south-central Oklahoma near the Texas border.
Sam Houston National Forest
View the vast expanse of protected pine and hardwood forests just north of the Houston metropolitan area.
The Woodlands
See the sprawling, master-planned community of The Woodlands during the descent into Intercontinental.
The right side is the best choice for evening flights to witness the sunset over the Great Plains. Keep an eye out for the distinct geological patterns of the Arbuckle Mountains roughly midway through the journey.
Distance: 1,037 km (644 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 23 min
Departure: MCI (39.2976, -94.713898)
Arrival: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Route Type: Domestic
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