Right-side seats win both segments. Takeoff offers the Sandia Mountains' dramatic escarpment, and landing provides unobstructed views of the Front Range and Denver's approach corridor.
Flown ABQ to BJC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Albuquerque to Denver is 346 miles (557 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Española Valley and Rio Grande gorge (north of ABQ), Sangre de Cristo Mountains (east-central New Mexico), Raton Pass area (northeastern New Mexico), Las Animas River valley (southeastern Colorado), Huerfano County plains (south-central Colorado), Spanish Peaks (distant southwest), transition from high desert to Front Range foothills
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ABQ
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Sandia Mountains immediately east of ABQ during northbound climb-out. The range rises dramatically from the Rio Grande valley floor and dominates the early departure phase.
Landing at BJC
RIGHTRight-side seats offer the best views during the final approach into BJC. The Front Range of the Rocky Mountains dominates the right side, and the descent path brings you directly over the foothills and into the Denver metro area.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) to Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Albuquerque to Denver. Right-side seats win both segments. Takeoff offers the Sandia Mountains' dramatic escarpment, and landing provides unobstructed views of the Front Range and Denver's approach corridor.
What can I see during takeoff from Albuquerque International Sunport in Albuquerque?
During takeoff from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Sandia Mountains immediately east of ABQ during northbound climb-out. The range rises dramatically from the Rio Grande valley floor and dominates the early departure phase. Notable sights include: Sandia Mountains (east), Rio Grande valley (west), Albuquerque urban sprawl (beneath), Jemez Mountains (distant northwest).
What can I see when landing at Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport in Denver?
When landing at Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer the best views during the final approach into BJC. The Front Range of the Rocky Mountains dominates the right side, and the descent path brings you directly over the foothills and into the Denver metro area. Notable sights include: Front Range of the Rocky Mountains (south and east), South Platte River valley (west), Denver metropolitan area (north), Chatfield Reservoir (southwest).
How long is the flight from Albuquerque to Denver?
The flight from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) to Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 346 miles (557 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Albuquerque to Denver flight path pass over?
Española Valley and Rio Grande gorge (north of ABQ), Sangre de Cristo Mountains (east-central New Mexico), Raton Pass area (northeastern New Mexico), Las Animas River valley (southeastern Colorado), Huerfano County plains (south-central Colorado), Spanish Peaks (distant southwest), transition from high desert to Front Range foothills