Right side scores higher due to the dramatic Rocky Mountain Front Range approach and landing sequence, which provides exceptional visual variety and recognizable landmarks. While the takeoff from Burlington is less scenic on either side, the right side's Mississippi River valley view during climb-out edges left. The cruise phase over the high plains is relatively flat on both sides, but the right side's approach to Denver's mountains and urban sprawl creates a compelling final segment that left cannot match.
Flown BRL to BJC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Burlington to Denver is 738 miles (1,188 km), a flight of about 2 hours 10 minutes.
High plains of central Iowa and Nebraska, Platte River valley (visible as a linear green corridor), transition from agricultural landscape to semi-arid high plains, gradual elevation gain toward the Colorado piedmont
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from BRL
RIGHTRight side captures the Mississippi River valley and initial climb over southeastern Iowa's rolling terrain. Left side faces inland prairie with minimal visual interest during the critical takeoff and initial climb phase.
Landing at BJC
RIGHTRight side offers the dramatic approach to the Denver metro area and the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. The mountains rise steeply from the plains, creating a striking visual transition. Left side shows the high plains extending eastward with minimal terrain variation.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Southeast Iowa Regional Airport (BRL) to Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Burlington to Denver. Right side scores higher due to the dramatic Rocky Mountain Front Range approach and landing sequence, which provides exceptional visual variety and recognizable landmarks. While the takeoff from Burlington is less scenic on either side, the right side's Mississippi River valley view during climb-out edges left. The cruise phase over the high plains is relatively flat on both sides, but the right side's approach to Denver's mountains and urban sprawl creates a compelling final segment that left cannot match.
What can I see during takeoff from Southeast Iowa Regional Airport in Burlington?
During takeoff from Southeast Iowa Regional Airport (BRL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures the Mississippi River valley and initial climb over southeastern Iowa's rolling terrain. Left side faces inland prairie with minimal visual interest during the critical takeoff and initial climb phase. Notable sights include: Mississippi River (visible as a distinct ribbon running north-south), Des Moines River confluence area, rolling Loess Hills topography to the west.
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 offers the dramatic approach to the Denver metro area and the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. The mountains rise steeply from the plains, creating a striking visual transition. Left side shows the high plains extending eastward with minimal terrain variation. Notable sights include: Front Range of the Rocky Mountains (Longs Peak, Mount Evans visible on clear days), Denver metropolitan sprawl, South Platte River valley, foothills transition zone.
How long is the flight from Burlington to Denver?
The flight from Southeast Iowa Regional Airport (BRL) to Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC) takes about 2 hours 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 738 miles (1,188 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Burlington to Denver flight path pass over?
High plains of central Iowa and Nebraska, Platte River valley (visible as a linear green corridor), transition from agricultural landscape to semi-arid high plains, gradual elevation gain toward the Colorado piedmont