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CLD → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Mc Clellan-Palomar Airport (Carlsbad) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side (Port) offers an unparalleled view of the Southern California coastline, including luxury harbors, iconic piers, and the vast Pacific Ocean, especially as the aircraft remains at a relatively low altitude for this short hop.
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North County Beaches
Golden sands of Carlsbad, Oceanside, and San Clemente immediately after departure.
Dana Point Harbor
A clear view of the distinct 'Whale Tail' shaped marina and dramatic coastal bluffs.
Newport Beach
Aerial perspective of Balboa Island, the wedge, and multimillion-dollar waterfront estates.
Port of Long Beach
The massive scale of container ships and the historic Queen Mary docked in the harbor.
Catalina Island
On clear days, the silhouette of Santa Catalina is visible on the western horizon.
Palos Verdes Peninsula
Rugged cliffs and high-end coastal topography just before the final turn into LAX.
Sit on the left for sunset flights to catch the sun dipping into the Pacific. Since this is a short flight, the aircraft usually cruises at under 10,000 feet, providing exceptional detail of the surfers and piers below. Avoid seats directly over the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the shoreline.
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Camp Pendleton
A vast expanse of undeveloped military training grounds providing a rare green buffer.
Saddleback Mountain
The prominent twin peaks of the Santa Ana Mountains rising above the Orange County basin.
Anaheim Landmarks
Potential glimpses of the Matterhorn at Disneyland and Angel Stadium during the mid-flight transition.
Downtown LA Skyline
The cluster of skyscrapers in the distance as the plane aligns for its final approach.
Hollywood Sign
Small but visible on the hillsides to the north during clear-air days in the final descent phase.
The right side is best for city lights during night flights, offering a sparkling grid of the Los Angeles basin. It is also the side to choose if you want to avoid direct afternoon sun glare. Watch for the 'H' of the Hollywood sign as you descend over the 405 freeway.
Book Hotels in Los AngelesDistance: 138 km (86 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 14 min
Departure: CLD (33.12829971, -117.2799988)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: Domestic
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