While takeoff offers some interest, the landing approach over the Caribbean and Aruba's distinctive turquoise waters and coastline provides the most visually rewarding experience. Left seats dominate the arrival segment, which is typically the more scenic portion of this route.
Flown MCI to AUA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Kansas City to Oranjestad is 2,388 miles (3,844 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
Gulf of Mexico (crossing the gulf's eastern portion with occasional visibility of the Yucatan Peninsula's northern tip), open Caribbean waters, scattered islands and cays of the Lesser Antilles approaching Aruba
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MCI
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Missouri River valley and the gradual transition from Kansas City's urban core toward the Flint Hills to the south and southeast. The climb-out path typically heads southeast, making right windows ideal for viewing the river's meanders and the city's eastern sprawl.
Landing at AUA
LEFTLeft-side seats provide the best views during descent into Aruba. The approach typically comes from the southeast over the Caribbean, and left windows face the island's northern and western coasts, the shallow turquoise waters, and the distinctive flat terrain of Aruba itself.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Kansas City International (MCI) to Reina Beatrix International (AUA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Kansas City to Oranjestad. While takeoff offers some interest, the landing approach over the Caribbean and Aruba's distinctive turquoise waters and coastline provides the most visually rewarding experience. Left seats dominate the arrival segment, which is typically the more scenic portion of this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Kansas City International in Kansas City?
During takeoff from Kansas City International (MCI), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Missouri River valley and the gradual transition from Kansas City's urban core toward the Flint Hills to the south and southeast. The climb-out path typically heads southeast, making right windows ideal for viewing the river's meanders and the city's eastern sprawl. Notable sights include: Missouri River (flowing northeast through Kansas City), Kansas City downtown skyline, Flint Hills (rolling prairie terrain to the southeast).
What can I see when landing at Reina Beatrix International in Oranjestad?
When landing at Reina Beatrix International (AUA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide the best views during descent into Aruba. The approach typically comes from the southeast over the Caribbean, and left windows face the island's northern and western coasts, the shallow turquoise waters, and the distinctive flat terrain of Aruba itself. Notable sights include: Caribbean Sea (turquoise shallow waters), Aruba's northern coastline, Oranjestad (the capital city on the northwestern coast), Malmok Beach area.
How long is the flight from Kansas City to Oranjestad?
The flight from Kansas City International (MCI) to Reina Beatrix International (AUA) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,388 miles (3,844 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Kansas City to Oranjestad flight path pass over?
Gulf of Mexico (crossing the gulf's eastern portion with occasional visibility of the Yucatan Peninsula's northern tip), open Caribbean waters, scattered islands and cays of the Lesser Antilles approaching Aruba