While takeoff scenery is minimal on both sides, the left side's dramatic Rocky Mountain approach into Denver, combined with mid-flight views of the Kansas-Colorado plains giving way to distant peaks, makes it the clear scenic winner overall.
Flown LCK to DEN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Columbus to Denver is 1,151 miles (1,852 km), a flight of about 2 hours 30 minutes.
Flat farmland of Indiana and Illinois transitioning to the Great Plains of Kansas and eastern Colorado, with the first distant views of the Rocky Mountains appearing on the horizon as the flight approaches Denver.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from LCK
RIGHTDeparting LCK westbound-turning flights give right-side passengers a brief look at Columbus's downtown skyline and the Scioto River before leveling off over farmland. It's modest but more visually interesting than the featureless plains on the left.
Landing at DEN
LEFTOn approach to DEN from the east, the Rocky Mountain Front Range dominates the left-side view, with Denver's skyline visible closer to the airport. This is a dramatic contrast to the flat plains on the right during the final descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Rickenbacker International (LCK) to Denver International (DEN)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Columbus to Denver. While takeoff scenery is minimal on both sides, the left side's dramatic Rocky Mountain approach into Denver, combined with mid-flight views of the Kansas-Colorado plains giving way to distant peaks, makes it the clear scenic winner overall.
What can I see during takeoff from Rickenbacker International in Columbus?
During takeoff from Rickenbacker International (LCK), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing LCK westbound-turning flights give right-side passengers a brief look at Columbus's downtown skyline and the Scioto River before leveling off over farmland. It's modest but more visually interesting than the featureless plains on the left. Notable sights include: Columbus downtown skyline, Scioto River, John Glenn Columbus International Airport area.
What can I see when landing at Denver International in Denver?
When landing at Denver International (DEN), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach to DEN from the east, the Rocky Mountain Front Range dominates the left-side view, with Denver's skyline visible closer to the airport. This is a dramatic contrast to the flat plains on the right during the final descent. Notable sights include: Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, Longs Peak, Denver downtown skyline, South Platte River valley.
How long is the flight from Columbus to Denver?
The flight from Rickenbacker International (LCK) to Denver International (DEN) takes about 2 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,151 miles (1,852 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Columbus to Denver flight path pass over?
Flat farmland of Indiana and Illinois transitioning to the Great Plains of Kansas and eastern Colorado, with the first distant views of the Rocky Mountains appearing on the horizon as the flight approaches Denver.