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IAH → SNA
Which side of the plane to sit from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston) to John Wayne Airport-Orange County Airport (Santa Ana)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the dramatic Guadalupe Mountains, the expansive Phoenix metro area, and the iconic desert landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park during the descent.
Permian Basin
The intricate grid patterns of oil fields and drilling pads characterizing the West Texas landscape.
Guadalupe Peak
The highest point in Texas and the surrounding national park, featuring dramatic limestone cliffs.
Phoenix Valley
The massive urban sprawl of the 'Valley of the Sun' framed by the Camelback and South Mountains.
Joshua Tree Region
Aerial perspectives of the Mojave Desert's unique rock formations and the transition into the Coachella Valley.
San Bernardino Mountains
Often snow-capped in winter, these peaks provide a majestic backdrop as the plane enters the L.A. Basin.
Orange County Landmarks
On clear days during the final approach, you can often spot the Anaheim stadium and the Disneyland Resort area.
Sit on the right for morning flights to see the desert features perfectly lit by the eastern sun. Watch for the white salt flats near the Texas-New Mexico border. On the typical approach into SNA, the right side provides the most scenic transition from the mountains into the urban grid of Orange County.
Gulf Coast Horizon
During the initial climb out of Houston, catch glimpses of the Texas coastline and the distant Gulf of Mexico.
Rio Grande & Border
Views of the winding Rio Grande and the international border between El Paso and Ciudad Juarez.
Chihuahuan Desert
Expansive vistas of the rugged, arid landscapes stretching across the Southwestern United States into Mexico.
Salton Sea
A striking view of California's largest lake, appearing like a massive blue mirror in the desert floor.
Cleveland National Forest
Lush green ridges of the Peninsular Ranges visible during the final descent into the Santa Ana basin.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare while still enjoying the sunset glow over the desert. This side is also excellent for seeing the distinct geometry of the Salton Sea about 20-30 minutes before landing.
Distance: 2,163 km (1,344 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 53 min
Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Arrival: SNA (33.67570114, -117.8679962)
Route Type: Domestic
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