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LAX → MEX
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to Licenciado Benito Juarez International Airport (Mexico City)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior coastal experience, featuring the California coastline and the breathtaking Sea of Cortez before transitioning into the volcanic peaks of central Mexico.
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Catalina Island
The rugged silhouette of the island visible shortly after departing LAX.
Pacific Coastline
Stunning views of the beaches from Orange County down to San Diego.
Sea of Cortez
The dramatic contrast between deep blue water and the desert mountains of Baja.
Mazatlán
Views of the historic port and beach resort as the plane crosses into mainland Mexico.
Nevado de Toluca
A massive dormant volcano with visible crater lakes during the descent phase.
The right side is perfect for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California. During the final descent, this side typically offers a broader view of the sprawling urban density of Mexico City and the surrounding volcanic valley.
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LA Basin
Expansive grid of the Los Angeles metropolis and the San Bernardino Mountains.
Salton Sea
California's largest lake, visible as a bright blue inland sea in the desert.
Altar Desert
Vast sand dunes near the border of Arizona and Sonora, Mexico.
Sierra Madre Occidental
Rugged mountains and deep canyons of the high Mexican plateau.
Popocatépetl & Iztaccíhuatl
Iconic snow-capped volcanoes often visible on the final approach into Mexico City.
Choose the left side for morning departures to keep the sun behind you. Keep your camera ready during the final 20 minutes of flight; the approach into MEX often loops around the eastern side of the city, providing a magnificent view of the active Popocatépetl volcano.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for MexicoDistance: 2,500 km (1,553 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 20 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: MEX (19.4363, -99.072098)
Route Type: International
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