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ATL → CUN
Which side of the plane to sit from Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta) to Cancún International Airport (Cancun)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is the clear winner for this route, offering a spectacular aerial view of the Cancun Hotel Zone and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea upon the final approach into Cancun International Airport.
Atlanta Skyline
Great views of the downtown and Midtown high-rises shortly after departure from Hartsfield-Jackson.
Florida Panhandle
Clear views of the emerald green waters and white sand beaches near Panama City or Destin as you cross the coastline.
Gulf Stream Transition
Observe the distinct color changes in the water as the plane moves from the continental shelf into deeper Gulf waters.
Isla Mujeres
The long, narrow island of Isla Mujeres is often visible just off the coast during the descent into CUN.
Cancun Hotel Zone
The iconic '7' shaped sandbar lined with resorts is most frequently visible from the left side when landing from the north.
Mesoamerican Reef
Glimpses of the world's second-largest coral reef system just beneath the turquoise water surface near the shoreline.
Seat yourself on the left for the most iconic views of the Caribbean. For morning flights, this side will be sunnier, so bring sunglasses. The 'A' seats are optimal for spotting the Hotel Zone as the plane makes its final turn toward the runway.
Mobile Bay
Views of the Alabama coastline, including the Port of Mobile and the expansive Mobile Bay bridge system.
Tropical Cloudscapes
The Gulf of Mexico often features dramatic towering cumulus clouds and thunderheads, especially in summer months.
Yucatan Peninsula Coast
As you reach Mexico, the right side offers views of the rugged, less-developed coastline near Holbox Island.
Endless Jungle
The vast, flat expanse of the Mayan jungle stretches to the horizon as the plane crosses over the peninsula.
Yucatan Sinkholes
With sharp eyes, you may spot circular 'cenotes' (natural sinkholes) dotted throughout the dense forest canopy below.
The right side (F or K seats) is best for sunset flights to avoid direct glare. It provides a more terrestrial view of the Mexican landscape, focusing on the dense limestone forests of the Yucatan rather than the ocean. Keep a lookout for large cargo ships in the shipping lanes below.
Distance: 1,422 km (884 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 54 min
Departure: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)
Arrival: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)
Route Type: International
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