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CUN destination photo
PHX destination photo

CUNPHX

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a more dramatic perspective of the Yucatan coastline upon takeoff and the rugged, mountainous terrain of the Sierra Madre Occidental during the transcontinental crossing.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏖️

Cancun Shoreline

Vibrant turquoise waters and the luxury hotel zone visible during initial ascent.

🏝️

Isla Cozumel

Views of the famous diving island shortly after leaving the Yucatan coast.

⛰️

Sierra Madre Occidental

Dramatic peaks and deep canyons of Mexico's major western mountain system.

🌵

Chihuahuan Desert

Expansive high-altitude arid landscapes stretching across the US-Mexico border.

🏜️

Sonoran Desert

Iconic desert scenery with unique rock formations as you enter the Arizona basin.

Choose the left side for the best chance to see the famous turquoise Mexican Caribbean colors. On afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, so keep window shades partially closed if the glare is too intense. Winter flights offer better contrast on the mountain peaks due to the lower sun angle.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🏝️

Isla Mujeres

A beautiful view of the island and reefs just north of Cancun airport during departure.

🌊

Gulf of Mexico

Deep blue waters and occasional offshore drilling platforms during the crossing.

🏖️

Padre Island

The world's longest barrier island stretching along the Texas Gulf coast.

🏞️

Rio Grande

The winding river marking the international border between the USA and Mexico.

🏔️

Superstition Mountains

Rugged peaks that signal the final approach into the Phoenix valley from the east.

The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. It offers a superior view of the Texas coastline and the urban layout of the East Valley in Phoenix, including Scottsdale and Mesa, during landing.

Top Activities in Phoenix
Route Information

Distance: 2,830 km (1,758 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 46 min

Departure: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)

Arrival: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)

Route Type: International

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