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LAS β RNO
Which side of the plane to sit from McCarran International Airport (Las Vegas) to Reno Tahoe International Airport (Reno)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a front-row seat to the dramatic transition from the Mojave Desert to the alpine beauty of the Sierra Nevada, including iconic views of Red Rock Canyon and Lake Tahoe.
Red Rock Canyon
Just after takeoff from LAS, you will see the vibrant red Aztec Sandstone cliffs and Keystone Thrust of this National Conservation Area.
Mount Charleston
The snow-capped peak of the Spring Mountains rises sharply to 11,916 feet, providing a stark contrast to the surrounding desert floor.
Eastern Sierra Nevada
Mid-flight offers a panoramic view of the massive Sierra Nevada range, including the rugged peaks near Mammoth Lakes and Yosemite.
Lake Tahoe
As the plane begins its descent into Reno, you can often see the crystal clear, deep blue waters of North America's largest alpine lake.
Mount Rose
A prominent peak that marks the final approach into the Truckee Meadows, often covered in snow through late spring.
For the best photography, choose a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Morning flights are ideal for the left side as the sun will be behind the aircraft, perfectly illuminating the Sierra Nevada range to the west. During winter, look for the 'rain shadow' effect where the left side is buried in snow while the valleys to the right remain dry.
Las Vegas Strip
Depending on the departure runway, you may get a sweeping view of the mega-resorts and the Sphere immediately after rotation.
Nellis Air Force Range
Look east to see the vast, restricted desert landscapes used for advanced military training and the famous 'Area 51' vicinity.
Walker Lake
A striking natural desert lake located near Hawthorne, Nevada, known for its deep blue color against the brown Wassuk Range.
Carson City
During the descent, you will see the capital of Nevada nestled in the Eagle Valley at the base of the mountains.
Virginia Range
The high desert hills east of Reno where wild mustangs still roam, visible as the plane banks for its final approach.
The right side is preferable for sunset flights (evening departures) to watch the sky turn orange over the desert without the direct glare of the sun. Keep your eyes peeled for 'lunar landscapes'βthe numerous dry lake beds (playas) and volcanic cinder cones that dot the central Nevada landscape. If flying into RNO from the south, the right side offers a better view of the downtown Reno skyline during the final seconds before touchdown.
Distance: 556 km (345 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 56 min
Departure: LAS (36.08010101, -115.1520004)
Arrival: RNO (39.49909973144531, -119.76799774169922)
Route Type: Domestic
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