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PHX → DSM
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to Des Moines International Airport (Des Moines)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the dramatic geological transitions from the Arizona high desert through the heart of the snow-capped Colorado Rockies before descending into the heartland.
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San Francisco Peaks
Dramatic views of Humphreys Peak and the volcanic fields surrounding Flagstaff shortly after departure.
Painted Desert
Vibrant hues of red, orange, and lavender across the badlands of the Four Corners region.
Colorado Rockies
Breathtaking views of the rugged peaks and deep valleys of the Southern Rocky Mountains.
Nebraska Sandhills
The unique, undulating landscape of the largest sand dune formation in the Western Hemisphere.
Missouri River
The wide, winding path of the Missouri River as it separates Nebraska and Iowa.
For morning flights, the left side is ideal as the sun will be behind the plane, illuminating the Rocky Mountain peaks perfectly. In winter, keep your camera ready about 45 minutes into the flight for the best snow-covered mountain shots. On clear days, you may even spot the distant rim of the Grand Canyon to the far north.
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Mogollon Rim
The massive limestone and sandstone cliff that marks the edge of the Colorado Plateau.
Sangre de Cristo Mountains
The southernmost subrange of the Rockies, visible as the flight path cuts across New Mexico.
Center-Pivot Irrigation
Perfectly circular green patterns of farmland creating a geometric mosaic across Kansas.
Des Moines Approach
Views of the Raccoon and Des Moines rivers converging near the downtown skyline.
Choose the right side for late afternoon flights to enjoy a spectacular sunset over the Great Plains. This side is also better for spotting the distinctive 'checkerboard' patterns of the Midwest during the final hour of flight. Keep an eye out for small reservoirs and wind farms scattered across the Kansas and Nebraska border.
Book Hotels in Des MoinesDistance: 1,847 km (1,148 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 28 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: DSM (41.53400039672852, -93.66310119628906)
Route Type: Domestic
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