While takeoff offers excellent Rocky Mountain views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic and sustained scenery—the Beartooth and Absaroka ranges are more visually striking than the Front Range at takeoff, and the Yellowstone River valley adds geographic interest. Left seats win overall.
Flown DEN to BIL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Denver to Billings is 455 miles (733 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
During cruise, the flight passes over the high plains of central Montana. Notable features include the Big Belt Mountains (visible to the left/west around midpoint), the Missouri River valley (visible as a green corridor), and scattered ranches and small towns across the grasslands. The terrain gradually transitions from the foothills near Denver to the open plateau of south-central Montana.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from DEN
RIGHTRight-side seats offer the best views during Denver departure. You'll see the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains immediately to the west and northwest as you climb out, with the urban sprawl of Denver and its suburbs visible below. The terrain rises dramatically in that direction.
Landing at BIL
LEFTLeft-side seats provide superior views on approach to Billings. You'll see the Beartooth Mountains and Absaroka Range to the south and southwest, and the Yellowstone River valley where Billings sits. The city itself becomes visible against the backdrop of these ranges during descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Denver International (DEN) to Billings Logan International Airport (BIL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Denver to Billings. While takeoff offers excellent Rocky Mountain views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic and sustained scenery—the Beartooth and Absaroka ranges are more visually striking than the Front Range at takeoff, and the Yellowstone River valley adds geographic interest. Left seats win overall.
What can I see during takeoff from Denver International in Denver?
During takeoff from Denver International (DEN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer the best views during Denver departure. You'll see the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains immediately to the west and northwest as you climb out, with the urban sprawl of Denver and its suburbs visible below. The terrain rises dramatically in that direction. Notable sights include: Front Range (Rocky Mountains), Denver metropolitan area, South Platte River valley, Pikes Peak (distant southern horizon).
What can I see when landing at Billings Logan International Airport in Billings?
When landing at Billings Logan International Airport (BIL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide superior views on approach to Billings. You'll see the Beartooth Mountains and Absaroka Range to the south and southwest, and the Yellowstone River valley where Billings sits. The city itself becomes visible against the backdrop of these ranges during descent. Notable sights include: Beartooth Mountains, Absaroka Range, Yellowstone River valley, Billings city and surrounding plateau.
How long is the flight from Denver to Billings?
The flight from Denver International (DEN) to Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 455 miles (733 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Denver to Billings flight path pass over?
During cruise, the flight passes over the high plains of central Montana. Notable features include the Big Belt Mountains (visible to the left/west around midpoint), the Missouri River valley (visible as a green corridor), and scattered ranches and small towns across the grasslands. The terrain gradually transitions from the foothills near Denver to the open plateau of south-central Montana.