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LAX → XNA
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport (Bentonville)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the High Desert, potential glimpses of the Grand Canyon's northern rim, and the rugged snow-capped peaks of the Southern Rockies before descending into the lush Ozark Plateau.
San Gabriel Mountains
Dramatic view of the rugged peaks bordering the Los Angeles basin immediately after the climb out.
Mojave Desert
Expansive vistas of dry lake beds, desert valleys, and the unique geometric patterns of the high desert.
Grand Canyon Vista
Depending on the specific flight corridor, the massive scale of the Grand Canyon is often visible on the northern horizon.
Southern Rockies
Spectacular views of the San Juan Mountains in Southern Colorado, especially stunning during winter months.
Ozark Plateau
Transition from the flat plains to the rolling, forested hills of Northwest Arkansas during the descent.
Sit on the left (North side) for the best sunlight, as the sun will be to the south for most of the flight. This prevents glare and provides better lighting for photography of the mountain ranges. Aim for a morning flight to see the desert shadows clearly, or a late afternoon flight to see the Rockies glowing in the golden hour.
Long Beach Harbor
Aerial view of the massive shipping ports and the Queen Mary during the initial departure loop.
Colorado River
The bright blue water of the river contrasts sharply with the deep reds and browns of the Arizona desert.
Meteor Crater
The nearly mile-wide impact site near Winslow, Arizona, is frequently visible as a perfect circle on the landscape.
Oklahoma Panhandle
The 'center-pivot' irrigation circles create a fascinating green-and-brown polka-dot pattern across the plains.
Arkansas River
The winding path of the river becomes visible as the aircraft crosses into the South-Central United States.
The right side (South side) is prone to direct sunlight glare, making it warmer and harder to photograph. However, it provides the best view of the Meteor Crater in Arizona. If flying at night, this side often offers views of the bright city lights of Phoenix or Oklahoma City depending on the southern deviation of the route.
Distance: 2,202 km (1,368 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 56 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: XNA (36.281898, -94.306801)
Route Type: Domestic
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