Loading map...

CUN destination photo
AUS destination photo

CUNAUS

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side (Starboard) is the winner for this route, primarily due to the spectacular departure from Cancun. Passengers on this side are treated to views of the iconic '7' shaped Hotel Zone, the turquoise reefs of Isla Mujeres, and the northern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula. Upon arrival in Austin, this side also offers a high probability of seeing the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) racetrack during the descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏨

Cancun Hotel Zone

The most famous view of the flight, showcasing the thin strip of luxury resorts between the Nichupté Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea.

🏝️

Isla Mujeres

A perfectly clear view of the island and the surrounding Garrafon reef area as the plane banks north after takeoff.

🪸

Yucatan Coral Reefs

Vibrant turquoise and emerald patterns in the shallow waters surrounding the northern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula.

🏎️

Circuit of the Americas

On the final descent into Austin, look for the distinct red and white stripes of the world-class Formula 1 racetrack.

🏙️

Austin Skyline

Depending on the approach pattern, the downtown skyscrapers and the UT Tower are often visible to the northwest during the descent.

The departure from CUN is the highlight; be ready with your camera immediately after takeoff as the plane usually makes a right-hand turn over the water. Morning flights are ideal for the right side to have the sun behind the aircraft, illuminating the Caribbean colors and the Austin landscape perfectly.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Riviera Maya Coastline

During departure, enjoy sweeping views of the white sand beaches and turquoise waters stretching south towards Playa del Carmen.

☁️

Gulf of Mexico Horizon

Expansive views of the deep blue Gulf as the aircraft reaches cruising altitude and heads northwest toward the US coast.

🏖️

Texas Coastal Bend

First sight of the United States often includes the barrier islands and lagoons near Corpus Christi or Port Aransas.

🌳

South Texas Brush Country

The landscape transitions from coastal plains to the dense, arid ranchlands of the South Texas interior.

Choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion over the Gulf. If landing to the north in Austin, the left side offers views of the Texas Hill Country in the distance. Afternoon flights on this side may experience significant sun glare while flying northwest.

Top Activities in Austin
Route Information

Distance: 1,484 km (922 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 59 min

Departure: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)

Arrival: AUS (30.194499969482425, -97.6698989868164)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.