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LAX β HOU
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to William P Hobby Airport (Houston)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the dramatic San Jacinto mountain range, the sprawling Phoenix metropolitan area, and the distinctive geological transitions of the high desert and Texas Hill Country.
San Jacinto Mountains
Rising sharply from the desert floor, these peaks offer a dramatic backdrop shortly after departure from the LA basin.
Coachella Valley
Vibrant green golf courses and palm groves contrasting against the stark brown of the surrounding Colorado Desert.
Phoenix Metro
Expansive aerial views of the Valley of the Sun, including the iconic Camelback Mountain and the urban grid.
New Mexico Badlands
Intricate erosional patterns and colored rock layers visible near the Las Cruces and White Sands region.
Texas Hill Country
The landscape shifts from arid plains to rolling green hills and limestone plateaus as you enter central Texas.
Sit on the left side during morning flights to avoid direct southern sun glare. This side provides the best angle for viewing the transition from the Pacific coast into the Sonoran Desert. Keep your window shade open as you pass Phoenix for the best urban photography opportunities.
Salton Sea
A massive, shimmering saline lake in the California desert that stands out significantly from cruising altitude.
International Border
Clear views of the Rio Grande and the stark visual contrast between El Paso, Texas, and Ciudad JuΓ‘rez, Mexico.
Imperial Valley
An impressive geometric quilt of agricultural fields carved out of the desert near the California-Arizona border.
Edwards Plateau
Rugged, canyon-cut landscapes in West Texas that look particularly striking during the 'golden hour' before sunset.
Houston Approach
Depending on the landing pattern into HOU, views of the sprawling refineries and the distant downtown skyline.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the desert horizon. This side also offers a better view of the US-Mexico border geography. Be prepared for some glare if flying during midday as the sun will be to the south.
Distance: 2,232 km (1,387 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 59 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: HOU (29.64539909, -95.27890015)
Route Type: Domestic
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