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LAX โ SJO
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic volcanic chain of Central America and the rugged peaks of the Sierra Madre.
Sonoran Desert
Aerial views of the vast arid landscapes and geometric patterns of Northern Mexico.
Sierra Madre Occidental
Spectacular high-altitude views of Mexico's primary mountain range and its deep canyons.
Guatemalan Volcanoes
A stunning line of volcanic peaks, including the active Fuego and the massive Agua volcano.
Lake Nicaragua
The massive expanse of the largest lake in Central America, featuring the twin-volcano island of Ometepe.
Arenal & Poรกs Volcanoes
During the final descent into SJO, you can often spot these iconic Costa Rican volcanic landmarks.
Sit on the left for the most diverse geographic scenery. On morning flights from LAX, the sun will be on this side, so window shades may be needed initially, but the volcanic views over Guatemala and Nicaragua are worth the glare. Keep your camera ready as you enter Costa Rican airspace for the lush green Cordillera Central.
Baja California Coast
The stark contrast between the desert mountains of Baja and the deep blue Pacific Ocean.
Sea of Cortez
Glimpses of the rich marine waters separating the peninsula from mainland Mexico.
Mexican Riviera
Views of the sprawling coastline near Puerto Vallarta and the rugged cliffs of the Oaxacan coast.
Gulf of Tehuantepec
The narrowest part of Mexico where the winds often whip up distinct patterns on the ocean surface.
Nicoya Peninsula
As you approach Costa Rica, the right side provides a bird's-eye view of the world-famous surf beaches.
Choose the right side if you prefer endless ocean horizons and coastal vistas. This side is significantly better for evening/sunset flights as you will witness the sun sinking into the Pacific Ocean. It is also typically the cooler side of the plane during morning southbound flights, avoiding direct tropical sunlight.
Distance: 4,382 km (2,723 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 9 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Route Type: International
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