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BUF destination photo
PHX destination photo

BUFPHX

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft typically offers a superior scenic experience, featuring expansive views of the snow-capped Southern Rockies and high-probability sightings of the Grand Canyon and Painted Desert during the descent into Phoenix.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏙️

Buffalo Skyline

A clear view of downtown Buffalo and the Niagara River shortly after takeoff.

🏔️

Southern Rocky Mountains

Spectacular views of high-altitude peaks in Colorado, often including Pikes Peak in the distance.

🎨

The Painted Desert

Vibrant hues of lavender, red, and orange across the Arizona badlands during the descent.

🕳️

Meteor Crater

A remarkably preserved impact site clearly visible from cruising altitude near Winslow, Arizona.

🏜️

Grand Canyon South Rim

On many standard arrivals into PHX, the southern expanse of the Grand Canyon is visible to the north.

The right side is the 'scenic powerhouse' for this route. Aim for a seat forward of the wing or at the very rear to ensure an unobstructed view of the Rockies. Watch for the transition from flat plains to mountain peaks roughly halfway through the flight.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Lake Erie Shoreline

Aerial perspective of the Buffalo waterfront and the eastern tip of Lake Erie shortly after departure.

🏙️

St. Louis Gateway

Potential views of the Mississippi River and the iconic Gateway Arch depending on the specific flight corridor.

🌾

Midwestern Grids

The intricate geometric patterns of agricultural fields across Missouri and Kansas.

🏜️

New Mexico Mesas

Dramatic flat-topped geological formations and desert floor textures as you cross the Southwest.

⛰️

Superstition Mountains

Rugged volcanic peaks and wilderness areas located just east of the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you, which minimizes glare and enhances the saturation of the desert colors. It is also the better side for capturing the industrial layouts of the Midwest cities.

Top Activities in Phoenix
Route Information

Distance: 3,071 km (1,908 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 37 min

Departure: BUF (42.94049835, -78.73220062)

Arrival: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)

Route Type: Domestic

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