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IAH → MID
Which side of the plane to sit from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston) to Licenciado Manuel Crescencio Rejon Int Airport (Merida)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides the most iconic views, including the Houston skyline upon departure and the breathtaking Yucatan coastline and the world-famous Progreso Pier during the descent.
IAH Operations
A great perspective of the massive terminal layout and runway configurations of George Bush Intercontinental.
Galveston West End
Clear views of the beachfront properties, the San Luis Pass bridge, and the transition to the barrier islands.
Offshore Oil Rigs
Numerous industrial platforms and support vessels dotting the Gulf of Mexico like small metallic islands.
Emerald Coastline
The stunning light-green and teal waters that define the northern shore of the Yucatan state.
Progreso Pier
The world's longest pier, extending nearly 4 miles into the sea, visible as a long concrete needle in the water.
Merida Suburbs
The organized grid layout of northern Merida districts including Altabrisa and the Periferico loop.
The right side is the 'money' side for this route. Aim for a window seat here to see the Progreso Pier about 10-15 minutes before landing. If you are flying in the late afternoon, bring sunglasses as the sun will be on this side of the aircraft. For the best photography of the coastline, ensure you are seated forward of the wing.
Houston Skyline
Distant but clear view of the downtown towers rising above the Texas coastal plain during the initial climb.
Houston Ship Channel
The intricate network of the world's largest petrochemical complex and massive container ships.
Bolivar Peninsula
The thin, sandy strip of land separating the East Bay from the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Deep Gulf Horizon
Vast, uninterrupted views of the deep blue Gulf of Mexico for the majority of the cruise phase.
Yucatan Jungle
The dense, flat green canopy of the Mayan forest as the plane crosses into Mexican airspace.
Sit on the left for early morning flights to enjoy a beautiful sunrise over the Gulf. Watch for the dramatic color change in the water from deep navy to light turquoise as you approach the continental shelf of the Yucatan Peninsula. This side also avoids direct afternoon sun glare when traveling south.
Distance: 1,156 km (718 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 32 min
Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Arrival: MID (20.9370002747, -89.657699585)
Route Type: International
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