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CNM destination photo
ABQ destination photo

CNMABQ

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side of the aircraft offers spectacular views of New Mexico's most prominent mountain ranges, including the Sacramento and Manzano mountains, and the striking Sierra Blanca peak.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
⛰️

Guadalupe Mountains

Visible shortly after takeoff, these ancient limestone reefs mark the rugged border between New Mexico and Texas.

🏔️

Sierra Blanca

The highest peak in Southern New Mexico, often snow-capped, provides a majestic focal point near Ruidoso.

🌲

Sacramento Mountains

Densely forested ridges that contrast sharply with the surrounding desert floor as you head north.

🏜️

Tularosa Basin

An expansive view of the high desert valley stretching toward the distant White Sands region.

⛰️

Manzano Mountains

A rugged mountain chain that borders the eastern edge of the Rio Grande rift during the final approach.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the rising sun while illuminating the mountain faces. During winter, the snow-capped Sierra Blanca is a highlight. This side also offers a better perspective of the varied topography transition from the basin floor to high-altitude peaks.

Right Side Highlights
6.5
💧

Pecos River Valley

The winding path of the Pecos River is visible as it snakes through the arid landscape of Southeast New Mexico.

🏜️

High Plains

Vast, open stretches of the Llano Estacado's western edge, showcasing the immense scale of the American West.

🌾

Estancia Valley

A high-altitude basin featuring circular irrigation patterns and salt crusts from ancient lake beds.

🏔️

Sandia Mountains

The iconic granite crest overlooking Albuquerque, which serves as a spectacular landmark during the descent.

🏙️

Albuquerque Cityscape

A broad view of the city's sprawl and the Rio Grande valley as the flight turns for landing at Sunport.

The right side is ideal for evening arrivals, as the Sandia Mountains often turn a brilliant pink (hence the name 'Sandia' or watermelon) during sunset. It is also the preferred side for viewing the city lights of Albuquerque if arriving after dark.

Top Activities in Albuquerque
Route Information

Distance: 371 km (231 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 37 min

Departure: CNM (32.337501525878906, -104.26300048828124)

Arrival: ABQ (35.040199, -106.609001)

Route Type: Domestic

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