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LAX → ZLO
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to Playa De Oro International Airport (Manzanillo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more varied landscape, transitioning from the high deserts and inland seas of Southern California to the rugged, dramatic peaks of the Sierra Madre Occidental in Mexico.
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San Jacinto Peak
Rising 10,000 feet from the desert floor near Palm Springs shortly after takeoff.
Salton Sea
A massive, shimmering turquoise inland lake visible in the middle of the Colorado Desert.
Sonoran Desert
Extensive views of the Desierto de Altar and its rippling sand dunes across the Mexican border.
Sierra Madre Occidental
The deep canyons and jagged ridges of Mexico's primary western mountain range.
Colima Jungle
Lush, tropical green landscapes as the plane descends into the coastal region of Manzanillo.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. This side provides the best perspective of the inland geographic transitions. Keep an eye out about 45 minutes into the flight for the striking contrast of the Salton Sea against the brown desert. During the winter months, the Sierra Madre peaks may occasionally show a dusting of snow.
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Orange County Coast
Views of Newport Beach and Laguna Beach immediately following the departure from LAX.
Baja California Peninsula
The rugged western coastline of Baja where the desert meets the Pacific Ocean.
Sea of Cortez
Deep blue waters separating the peninsula from the mainland, often visible during clear weather.
Islas Marietas
Small volcanic islands located near the entrance of Banderas Bay near Puerto Vallarta.
Pacific Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the deep Pacific, which can be stunning during afternoon golden hour.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or sunset flights to catch the colors over the Pacific. However, be prepared for significant sun glare on morning departures. As you approach ZLO, the right side often gets a better view of the jagged cliffs and hidden coves of the Costa Alegre before the final turn toward the airport.
Book Hotels in ManzanilloDistance: 2,141 km (1,330 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 51 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: ZLO (19.1448001862, -104.558998108)
Route Type: International
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