Loading map...
LAX → PSP
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to Palm Springs International Airport (Palm Springs)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a more dramatic approach into Palm Springs, featuring the iconic cliffs of Mount San Jacinto and coastal views during departure.
Search flights from LAX to PSP
Pacific Coastline
Excellent views of the South Bay beaches and Palos Verdes Peninsula during the initial climb.
Lake Mathews
A large, scenic reservoir located south of Riverside, easily spotted during the mid-flight segment.
Mount San Jacinto
The flight's highlight; a massive 10,834-foot peak that the plane flies alongside during the descent.
San Gorgonio Wind Farm
Thousands of rotating turbines concentrated in the pass, appearing like a miniature model city from above.
Coachella Valley Floor
The lush green golf courses and pools of Palm Springs contrasting sharply with the brown desert sands.
The right side is the definitive choice for the landing. You will be almost eye-level with the San Jacinto Peak during the final approach. Late afternoon flights offer spectacular 'golden hour' lighting on the desert mountains and the sparkling wind farms.
Book Hotels in Palm Springs
Downtown LA Skyline
Visible as the plane completes its initial loop eastward over the city after departing towards the ocean.
San Gabriel Mountains
Panoramic views of the rugged mountain range including Mt. Baldy, which is often snow-capped in winter.
San Bernardino Peak
View of Mt. San Gorgonio, the highest peak in Southern California, anchoring the north side of the pass.
The High Desert Edge
A glimpse of the arid landscape transitioning into the Mojave desert north of the mountain ranges.
Sit on the left if you prefer the expansive views of the Transverse Ranges. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the southern faces of the mountains. Look for the white domes of the Griffith Observatory shortly after the turn from the coast.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 176 km (109 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 18 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: PSP (33.829700469970696, -116.50700378417967)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.