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HOU → SNA
Which side of the plane to sit from William P Hobby Airport (Houston) to John Wayne Airport-Orange County Airport (Santa Ana)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the Texas Hill Country, the highest peaks in Texas, the Phoenix metropolitan area, and a stunning approach over the Southern California mountains into the LA Basin.
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Houston Skyline
Excellent views of downtown Houston and the Texas Medical Center shortly after departure from HOU.
Guadalupe Mountains
Look for El Capitan and Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in the state of Texas.
Phoenix Valley
A clear view of the sprawling Phoenix metropolitan area and the distinct shape of Camelback Mountain.
Joshua Tree
The rugged transition zone between the Mojave and Colorado deserts, featuring unique rock formations.
San Bernardino Mountains
Dominating views of Mt. San Gorgonio, the highest peak in Southern California, often snow-capped in winter.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to keep the sun behind you, providing better lighting for photography. Watch for the dramatic change in terrain as the flight crosses the Colorado River from Arizona into California. During the descent, you will often fly directly past the peaks of the Inland Empire.
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Chihuahuan Desert
Expansive views of the rugged desert landscape across West Texas and southern New Mexico.
Organ Mountains
Sharp, needle-like granite peaks rising dramatically above the city of Las Cruces.
Saguaro National Park
Aerial perspective of the iconic cactus-filled landscapes surrounding Tucson, Arizona.
Salton Sea
A massive, shimmering saline lake that creates a stark blue contrast against the desert floor.
Anza-Borrego Desert
Intricate badlands and corrugated canyon systems visible during the initial descent into Orange County.
Choose this side for late afternoon flights to watch the sunset over the Pacific horizon as you approach Santa Ana. The Salton Sea is the most prominent landmark to watch for about 30 minutes before landing. In winter, look for snow on the southern slopes of the San Jacinto Mountains.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,180 km (1,355 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 54 min
Departure: HOU (29.64539909, -95.27890015)
Arrival: SNA (33.67570114, -117.8679962)
Route Type: Domestic
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