Right-side seats score higher (3.0 vs 2.5) because the approach into Colorado Springs offers superior mountain scenery—Pikes Peak and the Front Range provide dramatic vertical relief and landmark density that the Phoenix departure cannot match. While the takeoff from Mesa is comparable on both sides, the landing advantage on the right side tips the overall flight experience.
Flown AZA to COS? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Mesa to Colorado Springs is 543 miles (874 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Transition from Sonoran Desert (Phoenix area) through the Arizona high desert plateau, crossing the Mogollon Rim escarpment, then ascending into the Colorado high plains with views of the San Francisco Peaks (extinct volcanic field near Flagstaff, visible to the north on clear days), before descending toward the Front Range and Pikes Peak.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from AZA
RIGHTRight-side departures from AZA typically use runway 30 heading northeast, offering immediate views of the Phoenix metropolitan area sprawl and the Salt River valley. Left-side departures see the same terrain but from a less favorable angle relative to the city's urban grid.
Landing at COS
RIGHTRight-side arrivals into COS typically descend from the northeast and approach runway 35R (when southerly winds prevail) or 17L (with north winds), both offering views of Pikes Peak and the Front Range. The descent path provides extended views of the Colorado Springs urban area and the dramatic mountain backdrop.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) to City Of Colorado Springs Muni (COS)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Mesa to Colorado Springs. Right-side seats score higher (3.0 vs 2.5) because the approach into Colorado Springs offers superior mountain scenery—Pikes Peak and the Front Range provide dramatic vertical relief and landmark density that the Phoenix departure cannot match. While the takeoff from Mesa is comparable on both sides, the landing advantage on the right side tips the overall flight experience.
What can I see during takeoff from Mesa Gateway Airport in Mesa?
During takeoff from Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side departures from AZA typically use runway 30 heading northeast, offering immediate views of the Phoenix metropolitan area sprawl and the Salt River valley. Left-side departures see the same terrain but from a less favorable angle relative to the city's urban grid. Notable sights include: Phoenix downtown skyline, Salt River, Superstition Mountains (distant southeast), Camelback Mountain.
What can I see when landing at City Of Colorado Springs Muni in Colorado Springs?
When landing at City Of Colorado Springs Muni (COS), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side arrivals into COS typically descend from the northeast and approach runway 35R (when southerly winds prevail) or 17L (with north winds), both offering views of Pikes Peak and the Front Range. The descent path provides extended views of the Colorado Springs urban area and the dramatic mountain backdrop. Notable sights include: Pikes Peak (14,115 ft), Front Range foothills, Colorado Springs downtown, Garden of the Gods park.
How long is the flight from Mesa to Colorado Springs?
The flight from Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) to City Of Colorado Springs Muni (COS) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 543 miles (874 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Mesa to Colorado Springs flight path pass over?
Transition from Sonoran Desert (Phoenix area) through the Arizona high desert plateau, crossing the Mogollon Rim escarpment, then ascending into the Colorado high plains with views of the San Francisco Peaks (extinct volcanic field near Flagstaff, visible to the north on clear days), before descending toward the Front Range and Pikes Peak.