Loading map...
LAS → TUS
Which side of the plane to sit from McCarran International Airport (Las Vegas) to Tucson International Airport (Tucson)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for iconic landmarks including Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam shortly after takeoff, followed by the high-altitude pine forests of central Arizona and the dramatic Santa Catalina Mountains upon descent into Tucson.
Lake Mead & Hoover Dam
Visible almost immediately after takeoff, providing a stunning aerial view of the massive reservoir and the engineering marvel of the dam.
Cerbat Mountains
A rugged mountain range near Kingman, Arizona, featuring sharp peaks and desert valleys.
Prescott National Forest
Observe the transition from low desert to the high-altitude ponderosa pine forests of the Mogollon Rim area.
Antelope Valley
Unique desert residential patterns and winding dry creek beds characteristic of the Arizona high desert.
Santa Catalina Mountains
A breathtaking view of Mt. Lemmon as you begin your final approach into the Tucson basin.
Book an early morning flight for the best lighting on the Hoover Dam and the red rock textures of the Arizona landscape. If flying in winter, watch for snow caps on the Santa Catalina Mountains near Tucson. Sit well ahead of or behind the wing for an unobstructed view of the Colorado River system.
Mojave Desert
Expansive views of the stark, beautiful desert landscape extending toward the California border.
Lake Havasu
Look for the bright blue waters of the Colorado River and the famous London Bridge area in the distance.
Picacho Peak
A distinct, jagged volcanic rock spire that serves as a historic landmark between Phoenix and Tucson.
Open Pit Copper Mines
Massive, terraced excavations near Sahuarita and Green Valley that look like giant geometric craters from above.
The right side is ideal for sunset flights to catch the vibrant purple and orange hues over the Sonoran Desert. Keep an eye out for the distinct silhouette of Picacho Peak about 15-20 minutes before landing. This side also offers better views of the sprawling urban grid of the Phoenix metro area if the flight path tracks slightly west.
Distance: 587 km (365 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 59 min
Departure: LAS (36.08010101, -115.1520004)
Arrival: TUS (32.116100311279304, -110.94100189208984)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.