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IAH destination photo
SNA destination photo

IAHSNA

Our Recommendation
8.5

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🛢️

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

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.

Top Activities in Santa Ana
Route Information

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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