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GDL → SNA
Which side of the plane to sit from Don Miguel Hidalgo Y Costilla International Airport (Guadalajara) to John Wayne Airport-Orange County Airport (Santa Ana)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior perspective of the Gulf of California's turquoise waters and the rugged Baja California peninsula, followed by a dramatic coastal approach into Orange County.
Search flights from GDL to SNA
Gulf of California
Breathtaking views of the 'Sea of Cortez' and its numerous uninhabited desert islands.
Baja Peninsula
The stark contrast between the deep blue Pacific and the arid, mountainous terrain of Baja California.
Orange County Coastline
A bird's-eye view of Laguna Beach and Newport Beach during the descent into Santa Ana.
Newport Harbor
Detailed views of Balboa Island and the yacht-filled harbors just minutes before touchdown.
Sit on the left (A seats) for the most iconic views. On morning flights, the sun will be behind the plane or to the east, providing perfect lighting for photos of the Mexican coastline. Look out for the distinct line where the desert meets the Pacific Ocean near the US-Mexico border.
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Sierra Madre Occidental
The massive volcanic mountain range that dominates the landscape of western Mexico.
Sonoran Desert
Expansive vistas of the high-altitude desert landscapes spanning northern Mexico and Arizona.
Salton Sea
A massive, saline endorheic rift lake visible as a shimmering blue patch in the California desert.
Cleveland National Forest
Rugged, forested canyons and peaks visible during the final approach pattern from the east.
Choose the right side (F seats) for interior mountain views. This side is particularly interesting during afternoon flights as it remains in the shade, reducing window glare. In winter, keep an eye out for snow on the high peaks of the San Jacinto Mountains as you enter Southern California.
Book Hotels in Santa AnaDistance: 2,049 km (1,273 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 44 min
Departure: GDL (20.521799087524418, -103.31099700927734)
Arrival: SNA (33.67570114, -117.8679962)
Route Type: International
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