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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Which Side of the Plane?
Which Side of the Plane is a free tool that helps travelers find the best window seat for scenic views on their flight. We analyze geographic features, landmarks, and typical flight paths to recommend whether the left or right side of the aircraft offers better views during takeoff, landing, and throughout the journey.
How do you determine which side has better views?
Our recommendations consider multiple factors: the geographic features near each airport (coastlines, mountains, city skylines), typical runway directions and flight paths, notable landmarks visible from the air, and the position of the sun during different times of day. We analyze both takeoff and landing separately since the best side may differ.
Does it really matter which side I sit on?
Yes, it can make a significant difference! Depending on your route, one side may offer views of famous landmarks, stunning coastlines, mountain ranges, or city skylines while the other side faces open ocean or flat terrain. For example, flying into New York JFK, the right side often offers views of Manhattan's skyline and the Statue of Liberty.
Is the best side the same for takeoff and landing?
Not always. The best side for takeoff depends on your departure airport's surroundings and typical departure routes, while landing views depend on the destination airport's approach paths. Our tool provides separate recommendations for takeoff and landing, plus an overall suggestion if you want to optimize for the entire flight.
How accurate are your recommendations?
Our recommendations are based on typical flight paths and geographic analysis. However, actual views can vary based on weather conditions, specific runway assignments on the day of travel, and airline-specific routing. We provide the statistically best choice, but views are never guaranteed.
Is this service free?
Yes, Which Side of the Plane is completely free. Simply enter your departure and arrival airports to get instant recommendations for the best window seat views on your flight.
Want the full breakdown? Read Left or Right Side of the Plane — How to Pick Your Window Seat.
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About This Airport
Which side of the plane has the best views landing at Des Moines International (DSM)?
When landing at Des Moines International (DSM), sit on the Right side for the best views. DSM's primary runways (13/31) mean most approaches come from the north or south. Right-side seats offer views of the Des Moines River valley and downtown Des Moines during typical northbound approaches, plus the surrounding prairie terrain that defines central Iowa's landscape. Notable sights include: Des Moines River winding through the city, downtown Des Moines skyline (notably the State Capitol building), Saylorville Lake to the north, and the grid pattern of Iowa farmland with section roads.
What can I see when arriving at Des Moines?
Arriving at Des Moines International in Des Moines, passengers on the Right side enjoy views of Des Moines River winding through the city, downtown Des Moines skyline (notably the State Capitol building), Saylorville Lake to the north, and the grid pattern of Iowa farmland with section roads. DSM's primary runways (13/31) mean most approaches come from the north or south. Right-side seats offer views of the Des Moines River valley and downtown Des Moines during typical northbound approaches, plus the surrounding prairie terrain that defines central Iowa's landscape.
What factors affect the best window seat landing at Des Moines International?
The best window seat landing at Des Moines International (DSM) depends on several factors: the approach path and runway in use, geographic features around Des Moines (mountains, coastlines, city skylines), weather conditions, and time of day. Morning and evening arrivals often offer the best lighting.