The right side gets the flat Texas takeoff but is compensated by mountainous cruise views over New Mexico and Arizona and, most importantly, a dramatic volcanic approach into Maui past Haleakala — a stronger combined sequence than the left side's desert and coastline glimpses.
Flight Path
The route crosses West Texas plains, the Sacramento and Guadalupe Mountains of New Mexico, the Sonoran Desert near Tucson, and then several hours of open Pacific Ocean before reaching the Hawaiian Islands.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase

Takeoff from DFW
LEFTWith prevailing south winds, departures roll south on the 17 runways then bank right toward the Pacific heading. That turn swings the Dallas skyline and the Trinity River into view on the left side before the plane settles onto its westbound track over flat Texas farmland.

Landing at OGG
RIGHTArriving aircraft typically loop south of Maui to land on runway 02 into the trade winds, banking so the right side faces Haleakala's massive volcanic shield and the sun-drenched south Maui coast near Kihei and Wailea. It's a far more dramatic sight than the smaller West Maui Mountains visible on the opposite side.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Dallas Fort Worth International (DFW) to Kahului (OGG)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Dallas-Fort Worth to Kahului. The right side gets the flat Texas takeoff but is compensated by mountainous cruise views over New Mexico and Arizona and, most importantly, a dramatic volcanic approach into Maui past Haleakala — a stronger combined sequence than the left side's desert and coastline glimpses.
What can I see during takeoff from Dallas Fort Worth International in Dallas-Fort Worth?
During takeoff from Dallas Fort Worth International (DFW), sit on the Left side for the best views. With prevailing south winds, departures roll south on the 17 runways then bank right toward the Pacific heading. That turn swings the Dallas skyline and the Trinity River into view on the left side before the plane settles onto its westbound track over flat Texas farmland. Notable sights include: Downtown Dallas skyline, Trinity River, Las Colinas towers, DFW airport complex.
What can I see when landing at Kahului in Kahului?
When landing at Kahului (OGG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Arriving aircraft typically loop south of Maui to land on runway 02 into the trade winds, banking so the right side faces Haleakala's massive volcanic shield and the sun-drenched south Maui coast near Kihei and Wailea. It's a far more dramatic sight than the smaller West Maui Mountains visible on the opposite side. Notable sights include: Haleakala volcano summit, Kihei-Wailea coastline, Kahoolawe island, Maui's central isthmus valley.
How long is the flight from Dallas-Fort Worth to Kahului?
The flight from Dallas Fort Worth International (DFW) to Kahului (OGG) takes 7h 55m.
What does the Dallas-Fort Worth to Kahului flight path pass over?
The route crosses West Texas plains, the Sacramento and Guadalupe Mountains of New Mexico, the Sonoran Desert near Tucson, and then several hours of open Pacific Ocean before reaching the Hawaiian Islands.