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LAX โ ZIH
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to Ixtapa Zihuatanejo International Airport (Zihuatanejo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side (Port) provides an incredible vantage point for the diverse geography of the Mexican mainland, including the massive Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range and the spectacular active volcanoes near Colima.
Sonoran Desert & Salton Sea
Shortly after takeoff, view the stark contrast of the Salton Sea against the surrounding California desert.
Sea of Cortez
Breathtaking views of the turquoise waters separating the Baja Peninsula from mainland Mexico.
Sierra Madre Occidental
The dramatic, jagged peaks of Mexico's primary mountain range stretch across the horizon for hundreds of miles.
Volcรกn de Colima
One of Mexico's most active volcanoes, often seen puffing steam near the border of Jalisco and Colima.
Michoacรกn Coastline
Lush, tropical green mountains that drop sharply into the deep blue of the Pacific as you approach Zihuatanejo.
Sit on the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh afternoon sun glare reflecting off the Pacific. Keep your camera ready as you pass south of Guadalajara to spot the snow-capped or smoking peaks of the Colima volcano complex. This side offers more geographical variety than the open ocean views to the right.
Channel Islands
Beautiful aerial views of Santa Catalina and San Clemente islands during the initial climb from LAX.
Baja Pacific Coast
The rugged, windswept western coastline of the Baja California Peninsula featuring massive sand dunes and cliffs.
Magdalena Bay
A glimpse of the vast lagoons where gray whales migrate during the winter months.
Land's End
The iconic 'El Arco' rock formation at the southern tip of Cabo San Lucas may be visible depending on the flight path.
Ixtapa Resort Zone
A perfect view of the high-rise hotels and crescent-shaped beaches of Ixtapa during the final descent.
The right side is ideal for sunset flights, offering spectacular orange and purple horizons over the Pacific. If the flight path stays further west, this side provides better views of the Baja Peninsula's unique desert-meets-sea landscapes. In winter, keep an eye on the water for potential whale sightings near the Baja coast.
Distance: 2,479 km (1,540 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 18 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: ZIH (17.601600647, -101.460998535)
Route Type: International
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