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DFW → SBA
Which side of the plane to sit from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (Dallas-Fort Worth) to Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (Santa Barbara)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic red rock formations of Arizona and the stunning mountain ranges of Southern California, concluding with a panoramic view of the Santa Barbara coastline and the Santa Ynez Mountains during the final descent.
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Sedona Red Rocks
Breathtaking views of the famous crimson sandstone formations and deep canyons of northern Arizona.
San Francisco Peaks
The snow-capped volcanic peaks near Flagstaff, including Humphreys Peak, rising sharply above the plateau.
Mojave National Preserve
Stunning desert geology, including cinder cones and the vast expanse of the California high desert.
Santa Ynez Mountains
The rugged, transverse mountain range that provides a dramatic backdrop for the city of Santa Barbara.
Goleta Coastline
Direct views of the bluffs, the UCSB campus, and the beaches as the plane descends into the airport.
The right side is the 'geology side.' You will see the transition from the Texas plains to the high desert mountains. Look for the red rocks of Sedona roughly two-thirds through the flight. On arrival, the right side provides a classic view of the Santa Barbara foothills and the city's red-tiled roofs.
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Chihuahuan Desert
Expansive views of the arid West Texas and New Mexico landscape characterized by vast basins and jagged horizons.
Phoenix Metro
A bird's-eye view of the sprawling Salt River Valley and the urban grid of the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Channel Islands
Dramatic views of Santa Cruz and Anacapa Islands as the aircraft banks over the Pacific Ocean for the SBA approach.
Santa Barbara Harbor
Excellent views of the Stearns Wharf area and the coastline during the final turn toward the runway.
The left side is ideal for travelers who enjoy the contrast between the vast desert and the deep blue of the Pacific. It is the better side for watching the sunset over the water on late afternoon flights. Keep your camera ready as you pass the Channel Islands about 15 minutes before landing.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,113 km (1,313 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 49 min
Departure: DFW (32.896801, -97.038002)
Arrival: SBA (34.42620087, -119.8399963)
Route Type: Domestic
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