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CUN → MEX
Which side of the plane to sit from Cancún International Airport (Cancun) to Licenciado Benito Juarez International Airport (Mexico City)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic views of Mexico's Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, including the towering peaks of Pico de Orizaba and the active Popocatépetl during the final approach into the Valley of Mexico.
Cancun Coastline
Breathtaking views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea and the white sand beaches of the Riviera Maya immediately after takeoff.
Yucatan Jungle
An endless expanse of tropical deciduous forest stretching across the flat limestone shelf of the peninsula.
Pico de Orizaba
The snow-capped summit of Mexico's highest peak, an extinct stratovolcano rising 5,636 meters above sea level.
Popocatépetl & Iztaccíhuatl
Iconic twin volcanoes; 'Popo' is often seen venting plumes of ash and steam against the horizon.
Southern CDMX Sprawl
The massive urban density of Mexico City as the plane maneuvers for landing at Benito Juarez International.
Sit on the left (port) side for the best chance to see the volcanic peaks. Morning flights (7:00 AM - 10:00 AM) are ideal as the air is generally clearer before smog and afternoon clouds build up. Ensure your window is clean for photography, as the contrast between the snow and volcanic rock is striking.
Gulf of Mexico
Deep blue vistas of the Bay of Campeche as the flight path hugs the coastline or crosses the open water.
Port of Veracruz
Views of Mexico's most historic port city and its busy maritime traffic along the Gulf coast.
Sierra Madre Oriental
Dramatic mountain ridges and green valleys as the aircraft transitions from the coastal plains to the high plateau.
Teotihuacan Pyramids
Depending on the specific arrival vector from the northeast, the ancient Pyramids of the Sun and Moon may be visible.
Northeast Mexico City
A bird's-eye view of the vast residential grids and industrial zones that define the northern edge of the capital.
The right side is preferable for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh southern sun reflecting off the wing. If the airport is operating with a northern approach pattern, this side offers a better perspective of the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan. Watch for the change in landscape from the flat Yucatan to the rugged Sierra Madre mountains midway through the flight.
Distance: 1,284 km (798 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 43 min
Departure: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)
Arrival: MEX (19.4363, -99.072098)
Route Type: Domestic
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