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MSO → LAS
Which side of the plane to sit from Missoula International Airport (Missoula) to McCarran International Airport (Las Vegas)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an iconic approach into Las Vegas, featuring the Great Salt Lake, Lake Mead, the Hoover Dam, and a high probability of seeing the Las Vegas Strip during the final descent.
Bitterroot Mountains
Dramatic, rugged peaks visible immediately after departure from Missoula.
Great Salt Lake
The massive, multi-colored expanse of Utah's inland sea visible at cruising altitude.
Lake Mead
The stark blue waters of the reservoir provide a brilliant contrast to the surrounding red desert.
Hoover Dam
A clear view of the engineering marvel and the Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge.
Las Vegas Strip
Exceptional views of the Sphere, the Strat, and the casino skyline on the standard approach to runways 26L/R.
Choose the left side for a sunset flight to see the desert colors transition to the neon lights of the Strip. During the day, watch for the 'bathtub ring' on Lake Mead's shoreline, which indicates the water level history.
Frank Church Wilderness
Vast, untouched forested terrain and deep canyons throughout central Idaho.
Snake River Plain
Ancient volcanic fields and the agricultural patterns of the Snake River valley.
Great Basin Ranges
Rhythmic patterns of north-south running mountain ranges separated by flat desert basins.
Red Rock Canyon
The vibrant Aztec Sandstone cliffs visible west of the city during the final approach.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare while flying south. It offers a more serene view of the 'Basin and Range' topography of Nevada, which is particularly striking with late afternoon shadows.
Distance: 1,208 km (751 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 37 min
Departure: MSO (46.91630173, -114.0910034)
Arrival: LAS (36.08010101, -115.1520004)
Route Type: Domestic
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