Loading map...

LAX destination photo
IAH destination photo

LAX โ†’ IAH

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side of the aircraft offers a more dramatic view of the varied geological formations of the American Southwest, including the San Gabriel Mountains and the red rock country of Arizona.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
โ›ฐ๏ธ

San Gabriel Mountains

Visible immediately after departure from LAX as the plane climbs and turns eastward.

๐Ÿœ๏ธ

Mojave Desert

Expansive views of the high desert landscape with its unique geological textures.

๐Ÿงก

Sedona Red Rocks

On many flight paths, the distinctive crimson sandstone formations of Sedona are visible to the north.

๐Ÿ”๏ธ

Sandia Mountains

The dramatic eastern edge of the Rio Grande Valley near Albuquerque, New Mexico.

๐Ÿšœ

Texas Panhandle Plains

The transition into the vast, flat agricultural grids of West Texas.

For the best visibility, choose a seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. This side avoids the harsh glare of the southern sun during most of the flight, making it easier to take photos of the Arizona and New Mexico landscapes. Watch for the red rocks about 60-75 minutes after takeoff.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
๐ŸŒŠ

Pacific Coastline

Depending on the departure runway, you may get a brief but stunning view of the Santa Monica Bay.

๐Ÿ’ง

Salton Sea

A massive, shimmering endorheic rift lake located in the California desert.

๐ŸŒต

Sonoran Desert

Views of the rugged southern Arizona landscape and the outskirts of Phoenix.

๐Ÿ›ค๏ธ

El Paso and Rio Grande

The winding river marking the international border between the US and Mexico.

๐Ÿ™๏ธ

Houston Skyline

On the final approach into IAH, the sprawling urban layout of the fourth-largest US city becomes visible.

The right side is ideal for seeing the Salton Sea and the border regions. However, be prepared for significant sun glare on morning and midday flights. If arriving into Houston during the evening, the city lights are particularly impressive on this side during the descent.

Top Activities in Houston
Route Information

Distance: 2,215 km (1,376 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 57 min

Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)

Arrival: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.