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MCI → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Kansas City International Airport (Kansas City) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is the premier choice for this route, offering the best vantage points for the Grand Canyon, Lake Mead, and the Las Vegas skyline, which typically lie to the north of the standard flight path.
Southern Rockies
The rugged, often snow-dusted peaks of the San Juan Mountains in Southern Colorado.
Grand Canyon
Unparalleled views of the massive canyon system, including the North and South Rims.
Lake Mead
The striking blue reservoir of the Colorado River set against the stark red rock environment.
Las Vegas Strip
The dense cluster of mega-resorts and the Sphere visible as you pass through Nevada.
Mojave National Preserve
Expansive desert vistas featuring dry lake beds and the unique topography of eastern California.
The right side is essential for the Grand Canyon; it usually appears about 45-60 minutes before arrival at LAX. Afternoon flights on the right side avoid direct sunlight, providing the softest lighting for photography of the canyon and the Las Vegas Strip. Avoid seats over the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the ground.
Great Plains Art
Intricate geometric patterns of center-pivot irrigation systems across the Kansas landscape.
Meteor Crater
The massive and remarkably preserved Barringer impact crater visible in the Arizona desert floor.
Painted Desert
Sweeping views of the colorful, stratified badlands and mesas of northern Arizona.
San Jacinto Mountains
The dramatic rise of the 10,000-foot peaks near Palm Springs during the final descent.
Orange County Sprawl
Views of the sprawling Southern California suburbs and the Santa Ana Mountains.
On morning flights, the left side is in the sun, which can cause glare; choose this side for sunset flights to witness the sky change colors over the desert. Look for the distinct circular impact of Meteor Crater about 40 minutes before descent begins.
Distance: 2,190 km (1,361 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 55 min
Departure: MCI (39.2976, -94.713898)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: Domestic
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