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HAV → MEX
Which side of the plane to sit from José Martí International Airport (Havana) to Licenciado Benito Juarez International Airport (Mexico City)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning sequence of views, starting with the lush western tip of Cuba, moving across the turquoise waters of the Yucatán Peninsula, and concluding with a breathtaking approach past Mexico's famous volcanoes.
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Havana Malecón
Aerial view of the famous seaside promenade and the dense colonial architecture of Old Havana immediately after takeoff.
Pinar del Río
The unique limestone 'mogotes' and tobacco fields of western Cuba's Viñales Valley region.
Yucatán Peninsula
Vibrant turquoise waters and white sand beaches as you cross the tip of the peninsula near Cancún or Cozumel.
Laguna de Términos
The vast coastal lagoon and the intricate wetlands of the Campeche coast.
Popocatépetl & Iztaccíhuatl
On the descent into Mexico City, these massive snow-capped volcanoes dominate the landscape to the south.
Sit on the left side to see the iconic volcanoes during the arrival. Book a morning flight to maximize visibility, as afternoon haze or smog in the Valley of Mexico can often obscure the distant mountain peaks. This side also avoids the harshest direct sunlight when flying westward in the morning.
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Morro Castle
The historic 16th-century fortress guarding the entrance to Havana Harbor shortly after departure.
Gulf of Mexico
Deep blue vistas of the open gulf and various offshore oil platforms visible in the Bay of Campeche.
Sierra Madre Oriental
The rugged mountain ridges as the plane begins its ascent into the high-altitude Mexican Plateau.
Mexico City Skyline
A sweeping view of the urban sprawl, including the skyscrapers along Paseo de la Reforma during the final approach.
The right side is excellent for viewing the sheer scale of Mexico City's urban expansion during the landing pattern. If you are flying in the late afternoon, this side will be shaded, making it easier to take photos without window glare while crossing the Gulf of Mexico.
Book Hotels in Mexico CityDistance: 1,771 km (1,100 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 22 min
Departure: HAV (22.989200592041016, -82.40910339355469)
Arrival: MEX (19.4363, -99.072098)
Route Type: International
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