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CUN → REX
Which side of the plane to sit from Cancún International Airport (Cancun) to General Lucio Blanco International Airport (Reynosa)?
Left Side of the Plane
While the right side offers an iconic departure over the Caribbean, the left side provides more consistent visual interest, including the vast Yucatan jungle, the wetlands of Tabasco, and the distant silhouettes of the Sierra Madre Oriental mountains.
Yucatan Tropical Canopy
Immediately after takeoff, view the dense, emerald-green jungle that covers the interior of the Yucatan Peninsula.
Laguna de Términos
A massive coastal lagoon in Campeche, famous for its turquoise waters and diverse mangrove ecosystems.
Pantanos de Centla
Watch the intricate silver ribbons of the Grijalva and Usumacinta rivers as they wind through these vast wetlands.
Sierra Madre Oriental
On clear days, the jagged peaks of the Sierra Madre Oriental range appear as a purple silhouette on the western horizon.
Reynosa Urban Landscape
A view of the industrial sprawl and residential grids of Reynosa as the plane maneuvers for landing.
The left side is superior for mid-day flights as it avoids the harshest glare from the southern sun. Keep an eye out for the transition from tropical jungle to the more arid brushland of Tamaulipas. In the afternoon, this side offers dramatic sunset views over the Mexican interior.
Cancun Hotel Zone
The world-famous '7' shaped sandbar and its turquoise lagoons are often visible during the initial climb.
Isla Mujeres
A beautiful bird's-eye view of this narrow island surrounded by the varying blues of the Caribbean Sea.
Gulf of Mexico Horizon
The majority of the flight follows the coastline, offering an expansive view of the deep blue Gulf waters.
Laguna Madre
As you approach Reynosa, look for this long, shallow hypersaline lagoon stretching along the coast of Tamaulipas.
International Border
The winding Rio Grande (Rio Bravo) marks the border between Mexico and the USA, visible just before touchdown.
Seat yourself on the right for the most iconic 'vacation' photos during departure from CUN. This side is also excellent for spotting the distinct line where the river silt meets the Gulf of Mexico near the mouth of the Rio Grande. Be aware that morning flights on this side may experience significant sun glare.
Distance: 1,282 km (797 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 43 min
Departure: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)
Arrival: REX (26.0089, -98.2285)
Route Type: Domestic
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