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AUS → MEX
Which side of the plane to sit from Austin Bergstrom International Airport (Austin) to Licenciado Benito Juarez International Airport (Mexico City)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is slightly favored for the spectacular views of the twin volcanoes, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl, which are often visible during the approach into the Valley of Mexico.
Texas Hill Country
Rolling limestone hills and cedar-covered ridges visible as the plane climbs out of Central Texas.
Sierra Madre Oriental
Stunning, jagged mountain ridges that characterize the high desert landscape of northern Mexico.
Popocatépetl
The iconic active volcano often seen venting steam to the south of the city during the arrival sequence.
Iztaccíhuatl
The 'Sleeping Woman' volcano, often snow-capped, providing a dramatic backdrop to the city skyline.
Santa Fe District
The ultra-modern glass towers and canyons of Mexico City's financial district visible during the base leg of the approach.
The right side is the best choice for volcano spotting, which is the highlight of the trip. In winter, the peaks are frequently snow-covered and highly visible. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting for the mountain faces on this side without the sun shining directly into your window.
Austin Skyline
Excellent views of Lady Bird Lake and the growing downtown skyline immediately after departure from AUS.
Rio Grande
The winding river border between Texas and Mexico is clearly visible as the flight crosses into Coahuila.
Cerro de la Silla
The distinctive saddle-shaped mountain of Monterrey can often be seen in the distance to the east.
Teotihuacán Pyramids
On the standard northern arrival path, the massive Sun and Moon pyramids are often visible just before touchdown.
Mexico City Basin
A sprawling view of the endless urban landscape as the plane descends into the high-altitude valley.
Sit on the left if you want a chance to see the Pyramids of Teotihuacán during the final descent from the north. Morning flights are better on this side to keep the sun behind you, though you may encounter some glare when looking east toward the Gulf.
Distance: 1,205 km (749 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min
Departure: AUS (30.194499969482425, -97.6698989868164)
Arrival: MEX (19.4363, -99.072098)
Route Type: International
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