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BWI destination photo
PHX destination photo

BWIPHX

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic transition from the Midwest to the snow-capped Colorado Rockies and the vibrant colors of the Mogollon Rim, all while avoiding the harsh southern sun glare.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Ohio River

The massive, winding waterway that defines the border between the Midwest and the South.

🏙️

Indianapolis Skyline

A clear view of the 'Crossroads of America' and its distinct radial city planning.

🏔️

Colorado Rockies

Dramatic views of the southern Rockies, including potential sightings of Pikes Peak depending on the northern drift of the airway.

🏜️

Painted Desert

Stunning vistas of stratified layers of siltstone and shale in brilliant reds and oranges across Northern Arizona.

🌲

Mogollon Rim

The massive geological escarpment that marks the edge of the Colorado Plateau and the start of the descent.

The right side is the photographer's choice for this route. It faces north, providing soft, consistent lighting without glare. Keep your window shade open during the mid-flight crossing over the Rockies for the best geological views. During the descent, you'll often see the vast sprawl of North Phoenix and the McDowell Mountains.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
⛰️

Shenandoah Valley

Early in the flight, view the rolling ridges and lush valleys of the Appalachian Mountains.

🏙️

St. Louis Arch

Catch a glimpse of the Gateway Arch and the Mississippi River waterfront if the flight path tracks south of the city.

🌾

Kansas Farm Patchwork

Look down at the mesmerizing geometric patterns of circular irrigation fields across the Great Plains.

☄️

Meteor Crater

A nearly perfectly preserved meteorite impact site located near Winslow, Arizona, visible shortly before descent.

🌵

Superstition Mountains

Rugged, iconic desert peaks that signal your final approach into the Salt River Valley.

The left side is excellent for spotting the Meteor Crater about 35 minutes before landing. For winter flights, choose this side for warmer cabin temperatures, but be prepared for significant sun glare during the afternoon westward trek.

Top Activities in Phoenix
Route Information

Distance: 3,210 km (1,995 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 47 min

Departure: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)

Arrival: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)

Route Type: Domestic

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