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ICN destination photo
LAX destination photo

ICNLAX

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers the most scenic approach into Los Angeles, featuring the rugged California coastline, the Channel Islands, and the iconic beaches of Malibu and Santa Monica during the final descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🗾

Japanese Coastline

Aerial views of the northern Honshu or Hokkaido coastline as the flight exits Asian airspace and begins its Pacific crossing.

🌅

Pacific Sunrise

Most flights from ICN depart in the evening, positioning this side for a breathtaking sunrise over the open ocean horizon.

🏝️

Channel Islands

Stunning views of Santa Cruz and Anacapa Islands rising from the blue waters of the Pacific about 30 minutes before landing.

🏖️

Malibu & Santa Monica

Iconic views of the Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu cliffs, and the Santa Monica Pier as the aircraft lines up for the runway.

⛴️

Port of Los Angeles

Visible just south of the flight path, showcasing one of the world's busiest maritime gateways during the final descent.

The right side is generally the preferred side for this route. It provides a direct view of the Pacific coastline as you fly south toward LAX. Since most ICN-LAX flights land in the morning, the sun will be behind or above the plane, providing excellent lighting for photos of the California coast without harsh glare. Watch for the Channel Islands roughly 45-30 minutes before arrival.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌉

Incheon Bridge

Dramatic views of the 13-mile cable-stayed bridge connecting Incheon International Airport to the mainland shortly after takeoff.

🌋

Aleutian Islands

If the flight follows a northern Great Circle route, look for the volcanic chain of the Aleutian Islands stretching across the North Pacific.

🏔️

Cascade Range

Distant, snow-capped peaks of Northern California and Oregon, including the massive silhouette of Mount Shasta.

🏙️

San Fernando Valley

A vast grid of urban sprawl surrounded by mountains, visible as the plane begins its final maneuvers over the Los Angeles Basin.

🎬

Hollywood Sign

Often visible in the distance against the Santa Monica Mountains during the final approach to the airport.

The left side is ideal for passengers wanting to see the northern geographic features like the Aleutian Islands mid-flight. For the best views of the LA sprawl and the San Gabriel Mountains, keep your window shade up during the final 20 minutes of flight. Be aware that glare can be an issue during morning arrivals as the sun rises in the east.

Top Activities in Los Angeles
Route Information

Distance: 9,625 km (5,981 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 11 hrs 19 min

Departure: ICN (37.46910095214844, 126.45099639892578)

Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)

Route Type: International

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