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DEN → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Denver International Airport (Denver) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Left Side of the Plane
While both sides offer spectacular desert and mountain scenery, the Left Side is superior for the iconic final approach into San Diego, where you pass directly by the downtown skyscrapers and Balboa Park.
Pikes Peak
Look south shortly after takeoff to see the famous 14,115-foot summit towering over the Front Range.
Monument Valley
Depending on the specific flight path, the iconic red sandstone buttes of the Navajo Nation may be visible.
Grand Canyon South Rim
Vast views of the deepest sections of the canyon as the plane traverses northern Arizona.
Salton Sea
A massive, shimmering rift lake in the middle of the California desert near the end of the flight.
San Diego Skyline
The most famous view of the route; the plane descends exceptionally close to downtown skyscrapers on the final approach.
For the most iconic San Diego experience, choose a window seat on the left side (typically seat A). This provides the 'near-miss' view of the downtown buildings during the landing on Runway 27. Morning flights will have direct sunlight on this side, while afternoon flights offer better lighting for photography of the city skyline during descent.
The High Rockies
Direct views of the Continental Divide and Colorado's highest peaks, including the Sawatch Range.
Arches & Canyonlands
The rugged, red-rock landscape of southern Utah is clearly visible under typical flight paths.
Lake Powell
The bright blue, winding waters of Glen Canyon provide a sharp contrast against the orange desert rock.
Joshua Tree National Park
Aerial views of the unique Mojave Desert terrain and the Coachella Valley before entering the mountain passes.
San Jacinto Mountains
The dramatic 10,000-foot granite peaks towering over the Palm Springs area during the initial descent.
The right side (typically seat F) is excellent for observing the high alpine terrain of the Rockies immediately after leaving Denver. This side is also shaded during morning flights, which reduces glare for viewing Lake Powell and the Utah canyonlands. Keep an eye out for the distinct transition from the high desert to the coastal ranges.
Distance: 1,371 km (852 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 50 min
Departure: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: Domestic
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