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RDU → LAS
Which side of the plane to sit from Raleigh Durham International Airport (Raleigh-durham) to McCarran International Airport (Las Vegas)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the high peaks of the Colorado Rockies and the dramatic red rock formations of Southern Utah, culminating in a prime view of the Las Vegas Strip during the standard approach.
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St. Louis Gateway Arch
If the flight path trends north, look for the iconic stainless steel monument on the banks of the Mississippi.
Colorado Front Range
Stunning views of the highest snow-capped peaks in the Rockies, including Longs Peak.
Arches & Canyonlands
The red sandstone formations of Southern Utah create a vibrant, Martian-like landscape.
Hoover Dam
A clear view of this engineering marvel and the Bypass Bridge just before touchdown.
Las Vegas Strip
On the standard descent into LAS, the right side typically enjoys a direct view of the world-famous casinos.
The right side is the premier choice for this route. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting for the red rocks of Utah and the canyons. During the descent, keep your camera ready for the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead. The approach into Las Vegas often aligns perfectly for a full-length view of the Strip; however, be mindful that heavy summer turbulence is common over the desert mountains in the mid-afternoon.
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Great Smoky Mountains
Early in the flight, view the rolling, mist-covered peaks of the southern Appalachian range.
Mississippi River
A major landmark crossing near the halfway point, often showing significant barge traffic.
Great Plains Tapestry
Observed over Kansas and Oklahoma, featuring the distinct geometric patterns of center-pivot irrigation.
Southern Rockies
Glance out to see the rugged high-altitude peaks as the flight crosses into Colorado and New Mexico.
Colorado Plateau
Expansive views of the high desert and the southern reaches of the Grand Canyon system.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you and avoid glare. This side is excellent for spotting the Great Smoky Mountains early in the flight and provides a vast perspective of the Lake Mead basin just before landing. During the winter, the snow-covered southern Rockies provide a stark, beautiful contrast to the desert floor below.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 3,253 km (2,021 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 50 min
Departure: RDU (35.877601623535156, -78.7874984741211)
Arrival: LAS (36.08010101, -115.1520004)
Route Type: Domestic
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