Loading map...

IAH destination photo
AMA destination photo

IAHAMA

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the most dramatic views of the Texas landscape transition, specifically the breathtaking Palo Duro Canyon and the Amarillo city skyline during the final approach.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🏙️

Houston Energy Corridor

Aerial perspective of the sprawling urban development and the Katy Freeway as you climb out of IAH.

🌊

Colorado River

The winding loops of the Colorado River cutting through the Central Texas brushland.

🌬️

Abilene Wind Farms

Vast arrays of white wind turbines visible across the rolling plains near the mid-point of the flight.

🏜️

Palo Duro Canyon

Breathtaking views of the second largest canyon in the US, featuring vibrant red clay and deep gullies.

🚜

High Plains Grids

Perfectly geometric agricultural patterns that define the Texas Panhandle landscape.

Sit on the left for the best views of Palo Duro Canyon during the descent. For afternoon flights, be prepared for some sun glare as you head northwest; window shades might be necessary until the plane levels off. Early morning flights offer spectacular shadows over the canyon floor.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🌲

Sam Houston National Forest

Dense pine and hardwood forests providing a lush green contrast shortly after takeoff.

🚤

Lake Conroe

A major reservoir popular for recreation, clearly visible north of the Houston metro area.

🌾

Brazos River Valley

Expansive views of the fertile river basin and its complex irrigation networks.

⛰️

Caprock Escarpment

The dramatic geological boundary where the rolling plains meet the flat Llano Estacado plateau.

The right side is the 'cool side' for afternoon flights, keeping you away from the direct sun. It is the best side for viewing the dense forests of East Texas during the initial climb. Look for the sharp rise of the Caprock about 30 minutes before landing.

Top Activities in Amarillo
Route Information

Distance: 833 km (518 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 23 min

Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)

Arrival: AMA (35.219398, -101.706001)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.