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KOA → PHX
Which side of the plane to sit from Ellison Onizuka Kona International At Keahole Airport (Kona) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side offers superior lighting for photography as it faces North, away from the direct sun. It provides iconic views of the Los Angeles basin, the rugged San Gabriel Mountains, and the striking Mojave Desert landscapes.
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Los Angeles Basin
Panoramic views of the Southern California coastline and the massive urban expanse of Los Angeles upon landfall.
San Gabriel Mountains
Dramatic views of high-altitude peaks like Mount Baldy, often snow-capped during winter and spring months.
Mojave National Preserve
A vast desert landscape featuring ancient cinder cones, Joshua Tree forests, and expansive sand dunes.
Palm Springs & San Gorgonio
Aerial perspective of the Coachella Valley, massive wind farms, and the steep north face of San Jacinto Peak.
Joshua Tree National Park
Spot the unique geological formations and boulder piles that define this high-desert ecosystem.
Choose the Left Side (Port) to avoid the harsh southern sun and glare during this eastbound trek. For night flights, this side provides a continuous light show over the Los Angeles sprawl and the distant glow of Las Vegas. Watch for the California coastline roughly 4.5 hours into the flight.
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Mauna Kea & Mauna Loa
Stunning views of Hawaii's massive volcanic peaks shortly after takeoff from Kona.
San Diego Coastline
Beautiful vistas of the North County beaches, Mission Bay, and the San Diego skyline in the distance.
Salton Sea
A massive, shimmering endorheic rift lake located below sea level in the heart of the Colorado Desert.
Imperial Valley
The sharp contrast of bright green geometric agricultural fields against the surrounding arid desert.
Kofa Mountains
Sharp, jagged volcanic peaks in western Arizona that look particularly striking during the 'golden hour'.
The Right Side (Starboard) is best for the initial climb out of Kona to see the Big Island's volcanoes. However, be prepared for significant sun glare for the duration of the flight as you are facing south. Use a window shade or polarizer for photos of the Salton Sea and Arizona deserts.
Book Hotels in PhoenixDistance: 4,597 km (2,856 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 24 min
Departure: KOA (19.738783, -156.045603)
Arrival: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Route Type: Domestic
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