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CLT → MEX
Which side of the plane to sit from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Charlotte) to Licenciado Benito Juarez International Airport (Mexico City)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an exceptional vantage point for the dramatic transition from the Gulf of Mexico to the Sierra Madre Oriental mountains, climaxing with a spectacular view of the Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes during the approach into Mexico City.
Charlotte Skyline
Excellent views of Uptown Charlotte's skyscrapers immediately after takeoff from CLT.
Gulf Coastline
Panoramic views of the coastline as the flight crosses from the southern US into the Gulf of Mexico.
Sierra Madre Oriental
Stunning aerial perspectives of the rugged, green peaks of the eastern mountain range in Mexico.
Popocatépetl Volcano
On clear days, the snow-capped peak of this active volcano is visible during the descent into the Valley of Mexico.
Puebla City
A birds-eye view of the historic city of Puebla nestled in the highlands shortly before landing.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is vital for seeing the major volcanoes on the standard arrival path into MEX. Keep your camera ready as you descend past 15,000 feet, as the mountain scenery becomes very dramatic very quickly.
Piedmont Plateau
Rolling hills and dense forest coverage of the Carolinas and Georgia early in the flight.
Mississippi River Delta
Look for the intricate branching waterways and industrial shipping activity of the southern delta.
Mexican Altiplano
The high-altitude central plateau of Mexico, characterized by unique arid landscapes and scattered towns.
Teotihuacán Pyramids
Depending on the specific landing pattern (northern approach), the ancient pyramids may be visible in the distance.
Mexico City Sprawl
The immense, dense urban footprint of one of the world's largest metropolitan areas during the final minutes of flight.
The right side is excellent for observing the vastness of the Mexican plateau. During afternoon flights, be prepared for some glare. If the airport is landing from the north, this side offers a unique perspective of the suburban sprawl and the northern industrial zones of the city.
Distance: 2,499 km (1,553 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 20 min
Departure: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)
Arrival: MEX (19.4363, -99.072098)
Route Type: International
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