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MKE destination photo
MCI destination photo

MKEMCI

Our Recommendation
8.0

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is generally preferred for this southwesterly flight to avoid the direct glare of the sun while offering spectacular views of the Mississippi River bluffs and the geometric beauty of the Iowa and Missouri heartland.

Right Side Highlights
8.0
🌲

Southern Wisconsin Glaciation

Views of the rolling hills and kettle lakes formed by ancient glaciers just west of Milwaukee.

🌊

Rock River

The winding path of the Rock River as it snakes through northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin.

⛰️

Mississippi River Bluffs

Dramatic limestone bluffs and forested ridges that line the northern banks of the Mississippi River.

🌽

Iowa Heartland

Perfectly manicured agricultural patterns and wind farms scattered across the Iowa plains.

✈️

MCI Approach

A broad view of the sprawling Missouri landscape and the Smithville Lake area during the descent into Kansas City.

This side offers the most consistent lighting conditions throughout the day since the sun remains to the south. It is particularly scenic during sunset flights, where the sky turns vibrant shades behind the Mississippi River bluffs. Keep an eye out for wind turbines in central Iowa, which are highly visible from this side.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Lake Michigan Shoreline

Aerial views of the Milwaukee lakefront and the Port of Milwaukee immediately after departure.

🏙️

Chicago Skyline

On clear days, the distant skyscrapers of Chicago can be seen to the south as you head toward Illinois.

💧

The Mississippi River

A major crossing of the iconic river, typically near the Quad Cities or Clinton, IA area.

🚜

Illinois Farmland

The transition from industrial lakefront to the vast, grid-patterned agricultural fields of the Midwest.

🌆

Downtown Kansas City

If the flight approaches MCI from the south, you may see the Kansas City Power & Light District and the T-Mobile Center.

Sit on the left side for morning flights to see the sunrise over Lake Michigan during takeoff. However, be prepared for significant sun glare for the remainder of the journey as the aircraft tracks southwest. Use the window shade strategically to balance the view of the Missouri River with the incoming heat.

Top Activities in Kansas City
Route Information

Distance: 700 km (435 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 10 min

Departure: MKE (42.94720077514648, -87.89659881591797)

Arrival: MCI (39.2976, -94.713898)

Route Type: Domestic

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