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CUN → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Cancún International Airport (Cancun) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the turquoise waters of the Yucatan, the vast Chihuahuan Desert, the strikingly blue Salton Sea, and the dramatic descent over the San Jacinto Mountains into the Los Angeles basin.
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Cancun Hotel Zone
A stunning aerial view of the narrow strip of white sand and turquoise Caribbean water immediately after takeoff.
Gulf of Mexico
Expansive views of the deep blue Gulf as the aircraft tracks west-northwest toward the Mexican coastline.
Sierra Madre Oriental
The rugged, jagged peaks and deep canyons of northern Mexico's primary mountain range.
Salton Sea
A massive, shimmering blue endorheic lake located in the California desert, clearly visible against the arid landscape.
San Jacinto Peak
The towering 10,834-foot mountain near Palm Springs that marks the entry into the Southern California coastal region.
Inland Empire
The sprawling suburban landscape of Riverside and San Bernardino as the plane begins its final descent into LAX.
For the best experience, choose a seat behind the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the Salton Sea. Morning flights are ideal to avoid the glare of the afternoon sun reflecting off the desert floor. During the final approach into LAX, the left side often captures the Pacific coastline if the aircraft makes a wide turn over the ocean.
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Rio Grande
The winding river marking the international border between the United States and Mexico.
Sonoran Desert
Vast stretches of arid landscape, volcanic craters, and unique geological formations across Arizona.
Phoenix Metro
The sprawling grid and high-rises of the Valley of the Sun, often visible depending on the specific air corridor.
Joshua Tree National Park
Aerial views of the distinct rock formations and high desert wilderness of Southern California.
San Gabriel Mountains
The prominent mountain range that forms the northern backdrop of the Los Angeles basin.
Downtown LA
A clear view of the iconic Los Angeles skyline and the Hollywood Hills during the standard 'Downwind' approach.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights as the sun will be behind the aircraft, providing soft lighting for photography of the desert. Keep an eye out for the San Gabriel Mountains during winter, as they are often snow-capped. If the flight path takes a more northerly route, you might catch a distant glimpse of the Grand Canyon's southern rim.
Book Hotels in Los AngelesDistance: 3,407 km (2,117 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs
Departure: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: International
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