The right side offers a stronger overall experience: a glimpse of Kansas City's skyline at departure, distant views of the southern Rockies and high plains during cruise, and a dramatic mountain-framed approach into Phoenix.
Flight Path
High plains of eastern Colorado and northeastern New Mexico, distant southern Rocky Mountain foothills (Sangre de Cristo range) visible to the north, and the arid mesas leading into the Rio Grande valley near Albuquerque before the route continues into Arizona's desert terrain.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MCI
RIGHTDeparting MCI, the initial climb and turn toward the southwest briefly reveals downtown Kansas City's skyline and the Missouri River bends to the north side of the aircraft before the plains take over.
Landing at PHX
RIGHTOn approach into PHX from the east, the north side offers views of Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak rising from the Phoenix basin, plus the sprawling grid of the city before touchdown.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Kansas City International (MCI) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Kansas City to Phoenix. The right side offers a stronger overall experience: a glimpse of Kansas City's skyline at departure, distant views of the southern Rockies and high plains during cruise, and a dramatic mountain-framed approach into Phoenix.
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. Departing MCI, the initial climb and turn toward the southwest briefly reveals downtown Kansas City's skyline and the Missouri River bends to the north side of the aircraft before the plains take over. Notable sights include: Kansas City downtown skyline, Missouri River, Kansas River confluence.
What can I see when landing at Phoenix Sky Harbor International in Phoenix?
When landing at Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into PHX from the east, the north side offers views of Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak rising from the Phoenix basin, plus the sprawling grid of the city before touchdown. Notable sights include: Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak, Phoenix urban grid, McDowell Mountains.
How long is the flight from Kansas City to Phoenix?
The flight from Kansas City International (MCI) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) takes 2h 35m.
What does the Kansas City to Phoenix flight path pass over?
High plains of eastern Colorado and northeastern New Mexico, distant southern Rocky Mountain foothills (Sangre de Cristo range) visible to the north, and the arid mesas leading into the Rio Grande valley near Albuquerque before the route continues into Arizona's desert terrain.