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IAH → ACA
Which side of the plane to sit from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston) to General Juan N Alvarez International Airport (Acapulco)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior perspective of the Texas coastline upon departure and the breathtaking Bahía de Acapulco upon arrival, which is the highlight of the trip. You also get a better angle for spotting Mexico's highest volcanic peaks during the mid-flight transit over the mountains.
Search flights from IAH to ACA
Galveston Bay
Aerial views of the Texas shoreline, Bolivar Peninsula, and the transition into the deep blue of the Gulf.
Gulf of Mexico Crossing
A vast expanse of turquoise waters often dotted with cargo ships and offshore oil platforms.
Pico de Orizaba
On clear days, see Mexico's highest peak, a massive snow-capped stratovolcano, rising above the clouds.
Sierra Madre Oriental
Dramatic views of the rugged ridges and deep valleys as the flight crosses into the Mexican interior.
Acapulco Bay
The iconic crescent-shaped bay, high-rise hotels, and the golden sands of the Golden Zone during the final descent.
Book an early morning flight to have the sun behind you for the best photography of the Mexican volcanoes. The final turn into ACA usually positions the left side for a perfect panoramic view of the 'Costera' and the city's famous harbor. Ensure your window is clean for the approach, as the humidity can cause slight fogging upon descent.
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Texas Coastal Plains
The intricate patterns of agriculture and meandering rivers south of Houston before hitting the coast.
Popocatépetl & Iztaccíhuatl
Distant but majestic views of the twin volcanoes near Mexico City if the flight path stays slightly west.
Sierra Madre del Sur
Dense, lush green mountain ranges and remote highlands characteristic of the Guerrero region.
Pacific Ocean Horizon
As the plane approaches the coast, the vast Pacific horizon opens up, especially beautiful during afternoon flights.
The right side is excellent for sunset flights, as you will see the sun dip into the Pacific Ocean. While you miss the main bay on approach, you get a great view of the 'Diamante' district and the newer resort developments south of the city center just before touchdown. Watch for the shadows of the Sierra Madre mountains lengthening in the late afternoon.
Book Hotels in AcapulcoDistance: 1,538 km (956 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 3 min
Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Arrival: ACA (16.757099151611328, -99.75399780273438)
Route Type: International
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