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LAX → ELP
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to El Paso International Airport (El Paso)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers a spectacular sequence of geological transitions, from the high peaks of the San Gabriel Mountains to the colorful desert expanses of Arizona and the dense forests of New Mexico.
Search flights from LAX to ELP
San Gabriel Mountains
Towering peaks like Mount San Antonio (Mt. Baldy) visible shortly after the departure loop from LAX.
Joshua Tree NP
A birds-eye view of the stark desert landscape and unique rock clusters of the Mojave Desert's southern edge.
Colorado River
The deep blue ribbon of water cutting through the desert terrain near the California-Arizona border.
Gila National Forest
Vast, rugged mountainous terrain and deep canyons as the flight crosses into western New Mexico.
Rio Grande Valley
The fertile green strip of the Rio Grande valley providing a sharp contrast to the surrounding desert on approach.
Choose a morning flight for the best lighting as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the mountains and desert floor without glare. During winter months, the snow-capped San Gabriel peaks provide a dramatic start to the journey. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes after takeoff for the most vibrant desert colors.
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Salton Sea
California's largest lake, appearing as a massive shimmering blue mirror in the middle of the desert.
Imperial Valley
Striking geometric patterns of bright green agricultural fields that stand out against the arid environment.
Sonoran Desert
Views of the iconic Saguaro-studded landscapes and volcanic craters south of the flight path.
International Border
The visible line of the US-Mexico border stretching across the desert floor toward the horizon.
Franklin Mountains
The rugged desert mountain range that cuts through the center of El Paso, visible during the final descent.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or sunset flights to catch the golden hour glow over the Franklin Mountains. Be sure to look for the Salton Sea about 25-30 minutes into the flight. If arriving from the west, the right side provides the best view of the El Paso-Juarez metropolitan area split by the border.
Book Hotels in El PasoDistance: 1,148 km (713 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 32 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: ELP (31.80719948, -106.37799840000002)
Route Type: Domestic
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