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ABQ → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Albuquerque International Sunport (Albuquerque) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Left Side of the Plane
While both sides offer desert beauty, the left side is the clear winner for its unparalleled view of the San Diego skyline and bay during the final descent.
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Rio Grande Valley
Lush green ribbon of water and vegetation carving through the high desert immediately after takeoff from Albuquerque.
Gila National Forest
Expansive views of New Mexico's rugged southern wilderness and mountainous terrain.
Imperial Sand Dunes
The massive, rolling golden dunes of the Algodones system near the California-Arizona border.
Salton Sea
The vast, shimmering surface of California's largest lake situated below sea level in the desert.
San Diego Bay
Dramatic views of the Coronado Bridge, naval vessels, and the Pacific Ocean as the plane turns for final approach.
Downtown San Diego
One of the world's most famous landing views, flying remarkably close to the skyscrapers of the city center.
Book a window seat on the left for the iconic 'downtown swoop' landing. Morning flights provide excellent lighting for the New Mexico landscape, while sunset flights offer a stunning golden glow over the San Diego Bay. Keep your camera ready as soon as you cross the mountains into the California coastal basin.
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Mount Taylor
A prominent stratovolcano visible to the north during the first phase of the flight.
Salt River Canyon
Deep, colorful rock formations and winding river paths often referred to as Arizona's 'mini Grand Canyon'.
Phoenix Metro Area
A bird's-eye view of the sprawling Phoenix grid and the surrounding Camelback and McDowell Mountains.
Sonoran Desert
Starkly beautiful desert plains characterized by unique geology and vast cactus-filled valleys.
Anza-Borrego Badlands
Intricate, weathered desert ridges and canyons that define the eastern edge of San Diego County.
Balboa Park
The historic California Tower and lush park grounds visible just seconds before touchdown.
The right side is perfect for geology enthusiasts, offering better views of the Arizona canyon systems. On the final approach, you'll get a great look at Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo. To avoid the harshest desert glare, choose this side on afternoon flights when the sun is to the south.
Book Hotels in San DiegoDistance: 1,009 km (627 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min
Departure: ABQ (35.040199, -106.609001)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: Domestic
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