Loading map...
IAH → PHX
Which side of the plane to sit from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the dramatic transition from the Texas Hill Country to the rugged Salt River Canyon and the iconic Superstition Mountains during the descent into Phoenix.
Search flights from IAH to PHX
Edwards Plateau
The rugged limestone canyons and cedar-covered hills marking the start of the Texas Hill Country.
Pecos River Gorge
A deep, winding limestone canyon carved into the desert floor near the Texas-New Mexico border.
Salt River Canyon
Stunning views of the deep blue water winding through massive red rock canyons in eastern Arizona.
Superstition Mountains
Legendary volcanic cliffs and rugged wilderness that serve as the gateway to the Phoenix metro area.
Downtown Phoenix
Depending on the landing pattern, a close-up view of the city skyline and Chase Field during final approach.
The right side is the 'cool' side for afternoon flights, staying in the shadow of the plane. It provides the best views of the descent into Sky Harbor, particularly the Roosevelt Lake area and the Superstition Mountains. To maximize the scenic impact, choose a seat behind the wing to ensure your view of the Salt River Canyon isn't obstructed.
Book Hotels in Phoenix
Brazos River Valley
The wide, meandering river loops visible shortly after departing Houston's western suburbs.
Permian Basin
Geometric patterns of oil pads and access roads stretching across the vast West Texas landscape.
White Sands National Park
A distant but distinct shimmering white patch of gypsum dunes in southern New Mexico's Tularosa Basin.
Organ Mountains
Sharp, needle-like granite peaks rising dramatically above the city of Las Cruces.
Sonoran Desert Floor
The classic Arizona landscape featuring alluvial fans and arid mountain ranges near the Gila River.
Sit on the left for better views of the sprawling oil fields of West Texas. On clear days, look far south over New Mexico to spot the bright white sands. For late afternoon flights, the left side will face the sun, so keep your window shade partially closed to avoid glare until the sun begins to set over the horizon.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,621 km (1,007 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 10 min
Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Arrival: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.