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STL → UIN
Which side of the plane to sit from St Louis Lambert International Airport (St. Louis) to Quincy Regional Baldwin Field (Quincy)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a front-row seat to the dramatic confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers and the scenic bluffs that define the border between Missouri and Illinois.
The Mississippi River
Constant views of the Great River's main channel, sandbars, and heavy barge traffic.
River Bluffs
The limestone bluffs of the Great River Road near Alton and Grafton are particularly striking from the air.
Illinois River Confluence
See the exact point where the Illinois River joins the Mississippi at Grafton, a distinct geographical V-shape.
Calhoun County Peninsula
A unique strip of land sandwiched between two massive river systems, known for its orchards and rugged terrain.
Quincy Bayview Bridge
A stunning cable-stayed bridge crossing the Mississippi, visible during the final descent into Quincy.
Sit on the right for the most iconic geography. Morning flights offer the best illumination of the Illinois bluffs. This is a very short flight (approx. 30-45 mins), so have your camera ready immediately after the initial climb. The confluence of the two rivers happens within the first 10-15 minutes of flight.
Missouri River Confluence
Catch a glimpse of the Missouri River winding into the Mississippi shortly after takeoff from STL.
Historic St. Charles
View the red-brick architecture and historic riverfront of one of Missouri's oldest cities.
Cuivre River State Park
An expanse of dense forest and rolling hills providing a sharp contrast to the surrounding agricultural grid.
Missouri Heartland
A vast tapestry of farmland and small rural communities typical of the Midwest landscape.
The left side is best during late afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. Keep an eye out for Mark Twain Lake further west if the flight path tracks slightly inland. In the fall, the wooded areas near the river valleys show vibrant foliage change.
Distance: 151 km (94 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 15 min
Departure: STL (38.748697, -90.370003)
Arrival: UIN (39.94269943, -91.19460297)
Route Type: Domestic
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