The northbound flight path from Salt Lake City to Missoula favors right-side seating overall. The takeoff climb provides dramatic Wasatch Range views on the right, and throughout the flight the aircraft tracks generally northward with the Cascade-Sierra mountain systems and various ranges visible primarily on the eastern (right) side of the aircraft.
Flown SLC to MSO? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Salt Lake City to Missoula is 436 miles (702 km), a flight of about 1 hour 55 minutes.
During cruise, the flight passes over central Idaho terrain including the Salmon River Mountains and various high desert basins. The Bear Lake region (Utah-Idaho border) may be visible on the right during the northern portion of the climb. The Bitterroot Range and Flathead National Forest become increasingly prominent as the aircraft approaches Missoula from the south.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from SLC
RIGHTRight-side seats offer immediate views of the Wasatch Range as the aircraft climbs northward out of Salt Lake City. The mountains rise dramatically to the east and northeast, creating a striking backdrop during the initial climb phase.
Landing at MSO
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the descent approach into Missoula. The aircraft descends from the south and west, and left-side passengers will see the Flathead Valley, the Clark Fork River, and the surrounding mountain ranges that frame Missoula's location.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Salt Lake City International (SLC) to Missoula Montana Airport (MSO)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Salt Lake City to Missoula. The northbound flight path from Salt Lake City to Missoula favors right-side seating overall. The takeoff climb provides dramatic Wasatch Range views on the right, and throughout the flight the aircraft tracks generally northward with the Cascade-Sierra mountain systems and various ranges visible primarily on the eastern (right) side of the aircraft.
What can I see during takeoff from Salt Lake City International in Salt Lake City?
During takeoff from Salt Lake City International (SLC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer immediate views of the Wasatch Range as the aircraft climbs northward out of Salt Lake City. The mountains rise dramatically to the east and northeast, creating a striking backdrop during the initial climb phase. Notable sights include: Wasatch Range (east), Great Salt Lake (northwest), Salt Lake City urban grid (below), Antelope Island in Great Salt Lake.
What can I see when landing at Missoula Montana Airport in Missoula?
When landing at Missoula Montana Airport (MSO), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the descent approach into Missoula. The aircraft descends from the south and west, and left-side passengers will see the Flathead Valley, the Clark Fork River, and the surrounding mountain ranges that frame Missoula's location. Notable sights include: Flathead Valley (west), Clark Fork River, Missoula urban area, Sapphire Mountains (south and east).
How long is the flight from Salt Lake City to Missoula?
The flight from Salt Lake City International (SLC) to Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) takes about 1 hour 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 436 miles (702 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Salt Lake City to Missoula flight path pass over?
During cruise, the flight passes over central Idaho terrain including the Salmon River Mountains and various high desert basins. The Bear Lake region (Utah-Idaho border) may be visible on the right during the northern portion of the climb. The Bitterroot Range and Flathead National Forest become increasingly prominent as the aircraft approaches Missoula from the south.