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IAH → BZE
Which side of the plane to sit from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston) to Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (Belize City)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning approach over the Caribbean Sea, featuring the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef and several of Belize's famous cayes and atolls.
Galveston Bay
Aerial view of the Texas coastline and the narrow barrier islands as you depart the US mainland.
The Deep Gulf
The dramatic transition from the muddy green coastal waters of Texas to the deep indigo of the central Gulf of Mexico.
Cozumel & Riviera Maya
Distant views of the Mexican coastline and the white sand beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula.
Sian Ka'an Biosphere
Massive networks of lagoons and mangroves on the eastern edge of the Yucatan.
Mesoamerican Barrier Reef
The world's second-largest reef system, visible as a bright turquoise line against the dark ocean.
Ambergris Caye
Views of San Pedro and the popular tourist islands as the plane begins its final descent into Belize.
Sit on the left side (Port) for the most iconic views of the reef and islands. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you or overhead, highlighting the turquoise water. Keep your camera ready as you cross the coastline of Quintana Roo, Mexico, as the color palette changes rapidly.
Houston Skyline
A view of the sprawling Houston metropolis and the Medical Center during the initial climb.
Yucatan Interior
The vast, flat expanse of the Mayan jungle, stretching endlessly toward the western horizon.
Lake Bacalar
Known as the Lake of Seven Colors, this stunning inland lagoon near the Belize border is often visible.
New River
Winding, tea-colored rivers snaking through the dense tropical forests of northern Belize.
Orange Walk Town
Views of the agricultural heartland of Belize, including sugar cane fields and small villages.
The right side is best for those interested in the dense tropical geography and inland lagoons. Note that on afternoon flights, you may encounter significant sun glare on this side. Watch for the 'Blue Hole' of Lake Bacalar near the Mexico-Belize border, which stands out with its distinct shades of blue.
Distance: 1,557 km (967 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 5 min
Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Arrival: BZE (17.539100646972653, -88.30819702148438)
Route Type: International
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