While takeoff favors the right side, the landing approach into LGA is significantly more visually rewarding from the left, and this is the more memorable segment of the flight. The Hudson and East Rivers, Manhattan skyline, and the dramatic final descent into the airport corridor make left-side seating the better overall choice.
Flown DSM to LGA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Des Moines to New York is 1,028 miles (1,655 km), a flight of about 2 hours 40 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Pennsylvania, passing north of the Appalachian ridge system (visible as a series of parallel ridges running northeast-southwest around 40.5°N, 77°W). The Susquehanna River and its reservoirs (Lake Conemaugh, Raystown Lake) appear as bright blue linear features cutting through forested terrain. As the route approaches New York airspace, the Delaware River becomes visible marking the Pennsylvania-New Jersey border. The Hudson River Valley opens up in the final approach segment, with the river widening significantly as it approaches the New York metropolitan area.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from DSM
RIGHTDSM typically departs eastbound (Runways 13L/13R or 31L/31R depending on wind). Right-side seats face north initially, giving views of the Des Moines River valley and the city grid spreading below. Left seats would see farmland and fewer distinctive features during climb-out.
Landing at LGA
LEFTLGA approaches from the west typically use Runways 04 or 22 depending on wind. Left-side seats during descent into LGA offer views of the Hudson River, Manhattan's east side, and the East River—the most visually distinctive features of the New York approach corridor.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Des Moines International (DSM) to La Guardia (LGA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Des Moines to New York. While takeoff favors the right side, the landing approach into LGA is significantly more visually rewarding from the left, and this is the more memorable segment of the flight. The Hudson and East Rivers, Manhattan skyline, and the dramatic final descent into the airport corridor make left-side seating the better overall choice.
What can I see during takeoff from Des Moines International in Des Moines?
During takeoff from Des Moines International (DSM), sit on the Right side for the best views. DSM typically departs eastbound (Runways 13L/13R or 31L/31R depending on wind). Right-side seats face north initially, giving views of the Des Moines River valley and the city grid spreading below. Left seats would see farmland and fewer distinctive features during climb-out. Notable sights include: Des Moines River winding through downtown, Iowa State Capitol building (visible as a white dome structure), Saylorville Lake to the north, suburban sprawl transitioning to agricultural grid.
What can I see when landing at La Guardia in New York?
When landing at La Guardia (LGA), sit on the Left side for the best views. LGA approaches from the west typically use Runways 04 or 22 depending on wind. Left-side seats during descent into LGA offer views of the Hudson River, Manhattan's east side, and the East River—the most visually distinctive features of the New York approach corridor. Notable sights include: Hudson River and East River (defining waterways), Manhattan skyline with recognizable building clusters, Flushing Bay and Corona Park (immediate approach area), Queens residential neighborhoods.
How long is the flight from Des Moines to New York?
The flight from Des Moines International (DSM) to La Guardia (LGA) takes about 2 hours 40 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,028 miles (1,655 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Des Moines to New York flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Pennsylvania, passing north of the Appalachian ridge system (visible as a series of parallel ridges running northeast-southwest around 40.5°N, 77°W). The Susquehanna River and its reservoirs (Lake Conemaugh, Raystown Lake) appear as bright blue linear features cutting through forested terrain. As the route approaches New York airspace, the Delaware River becomes visible marking the Pennsylvania-New Jersey border. The Hudson River Valley opens up in the final approach segment, with the river widening significantly as it approaches the New York metropolitan area.