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IAH → SJC
Which side of the plane to sit from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston) to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (San Jose)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a more dramatic showcase of the American Southwest's diverse geology, including the high-altitude peaks of New Mexico, the red rocks of Arizona, and a spectacular descent over the Diablo Range into the Silicon Valley.
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Texas Hill Country
Early flight segments offer views of the rolling green terrain and the city of Austin to the north.
Sandia Mountains
Dramatic views of the high-altitude peaks and the Rio Grande valley near Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Sedona Red Rocks
Vibrant crimson sandstone formations and high desert plateaus are often visible near Northern Arizona.
Meteor Crater
On clear days, the massive impact site in the Arizona desert can be spotted as a distinct circular feature.
Diablo Range
A stunning close-up of the rugged, golden ridges and Mount Hamilton during the final descent into San Jose.
The right side is premier for geological enthusiasts. For morning flights, this side will have the best illumination on the desert floor. During the final 20 minutes of the flight, stay alert for the Lick Observatory on Mount Hamilton as you cross the Diablo Range into SJC.
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Chihuahuan Desert
Expansive views of the vast, arid landscapes and scrublands of West Texas and Southern New Mexico.
El Paso & Borderlands
Clear sightlines of the Rio Grande and the sprawling international border between El Paso and Juarez.
Sonoran Desert
Classic Southwestern scenery featuring rugged mountains and sun-drenched valleys across Southern Arizona.
Salton Sea
Depending on the specific airway, you may spot this large, shimmering saline lake in the California desert.
Inland Empire
Views of the San Bernardino mountains and the sprawling suburban landscape east of Los Angeles.
Sit on the left for softer lighting during late afternoon flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. This side is particularly interesting for observing the geometric patterns of the US-Mexico border and the stark industrial contrast of the border cities.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,583 km (1,605 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 27 min
Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Arrival: SJC (37.362598, -121.929001)
Route Type: Domestic
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