Loading map...
CZM → MEX
Which side of the plane to sit from Cozumel International Airport (Cozumel) to Licenciado Benito Juarez International Airport (Mexico City)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic views of Mexico's high-altitude volcanic peaks, including the massive Pico de Orizaba and the active Popocatépetl, which are the highlights of the descent into the Valley of Mexico.
Cozumel Reefs
Stunning views of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef and the turquoise shallows immediately after takeoff.
Yucatan Jungle
A vast, unbroken carpet of tropical forest stretching across the peninsula toward the state of Campeche.
Laguna de Términos
The largest coastal lagoon in Mexico, known for its vibrant blue and green waters near Ciudad del Carmen.
Pico de Orizaba
A breathtaking view of Mexico's highest peak, a dormant stratovolcano often capped with snow.
Popocatépetl
One of Mexico's most active volcanoes; you can often see plumes of smoke rising from its crater during the approach.
Mexico City Sprawl
The immense, dense urban landscape of the capital city as the plane enters the high-altitude basin.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the iconic 'Popo' volcano. Choose a morning flight for the clearest air and to avoid the glare of the afternoon sun, which will be to your south. Keep your camera ready as you pass the state of Puebla, as the transition from the coastal plains to the volcanic highlands is rapid and visually stunning.
Riviera Maya Coast
Aerial views of the white sand beaches of Playa del Carmen as the plane crosses from the island to the mainland.
Port of Veracruz
The busy shipping lanes and historic harbor of one of Mexico's oldest and most important port cities.
Iztaccíhuatl
The 'Sleeping Woman' volcano, located right next to Popocatépetl, showing its distinct four peaks.
Teotihuacán Pyramids
Depending on the traffic pattern and wind direction, you may see the Sun and Moon pyramids on a northern approach.
Paseo de la Reforma
The modern skyscrapers and monuments of central Mexico City are often visible during the final banking maneuvers.
The right side is excellent for seeing the coastline during the first 20 minutes of flight. If the airport is using a northern arrival pattern (common in certain wind conditions), you will have a superior view of the Teotihuacán archaeological site. This side is also better for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Sierra Madre mountains.
Distance: 1,275 km (792 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 42 min
Departure: CZM (20.52239990234375, -86.92559814453125)
Arrival: MEX (19.4363, -99.072098)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.