Loading map...
LAX → MCE
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to Merced Regional Macready Field (Merced)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior vantage point for the dramatic San Gabriel Mountains and the distant, snow-capped Sierra Nevada range during the northward ascent.
Search flights from LAX to MCE
Los Angeles Basin
Panoramic views of the sprawling city, including the downtown skyline and Hollywood Hills.
Sierra Nevada
Majestic views of the high peaks to the east, often snow-capped during winter and spring months.
Tehachapi Pass
A glimpse of one of the world's largest concentrations of wind turbines near the mountain transition.
Yosemite Gateway
As the plane approaches Merced, look east toward the foothills leading to the high Sierras and Yosemite.
The right side is ideal for mountain lovers. Afternoon flights offer the best illumination of the Sierra Nevada mountains to the east. Keep an eye out for the San Andreas Fault line as the plane crosses the mountains north of the LA basin.
Book Hotels in Merced
Pacific Coastline
Striking views of the Santa Monica Bay and Malibu coast during the initial climb out of LAX.
Coast Ranges
The rugged and arid peaks of the Los Padres National Forest stretching toward the western horizon.
Central Valley Mosaic
An endless patchwork of orchards and fields that define the western San Joaquin Valley.
The Grapevine
The winding Interstate 5 corridor as it snakes through the steep Tejon Pass.
Great for spotting the coastline early in the flight. Morning flights are best to avoid the afternoon sun reflecting harshly off the Pacific Ocean. As you enter the Central Valley, look for the California Aqueduct snaking along the hills.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 418 km (260 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 42 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: MCE (37.28469849, -120.5139999)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.