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LAX → BOI
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to Boise Air Terminal/Gowen Field (Boise)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range and the lush transition into the Pacific Northwest environment.
Santa Monica Bay
Dramatic aerial views of the Malibu coastline and the Santa Monica Mountains immediately after departure.
Sierra Nevada Crest
Unparalleled views of the high peaks, including the jagged ridges near Mt. Whitney and the eastern escarpment.
Mammoth Mountain
Aerial perspective of the volcanic peaks and ski runs of the Mammoth Lakes region.
Lake Tahoe
On clearer western flight corridors, the deep blue waters of South Lake Tahoe are visible in the distance.
Snake River
The winding progress of the Snake River as it cuts through the basalt plains of southern Idaho during descent.
Sit behind the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block your view of the Sierra Nevada peaks. Morning flights are ideal for the left side as the sun illuminates the eastern face of the mountains, highlighting the dramatic shadows and topography. In winter, look for the stark contrast between the snow-capped peaks and the dark desert floor.
Los Angeles Basin
An expansive view of the urban sprawl, the Hollywood Sign, and the San Gabriel Mountains during the climb.
Mojave Desert
Vast stretches of arid landscape, Edwards Air Force Base, and the unique geometric patterns of dry lake beds.
Death Valley
Views of the Panamint Range and the salt flats of the lowest point in North America to the far east.
Great Basin National Park
The rugged 'basin and range' topography of Nevada, featuring isolated mountain islands in a desert sea.
Owyhee Mountains
The remote and deeply etched canyons of the Owyhee wilderness just before touching down in Boise.
Choose the right side for late afternoon or sunset flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun which will be on the left. This side is excellent for observing the vastness of the American desert and the complex geology of the Great Basin. Keep an eye out for 'dust devils' or small storms over the Nevada desert during summer months.
Distance: 1,086 km (675 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: BOI (43.5644, -116.223)
Route Type: Domestic
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