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LGB destination photo
AUS destination photo

LGBAUS

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers superior views of the dramatic Arizona Mogollon Rim, the colorful New Mexico mesas, and the scenic entry into the Texas Hill Country via Lake Travis.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🏙️

LA Basin

High-altitude views of the urban sprawl and the San Bernardino Mountains shortly after departure.

🏜️

Mojave Wilderness

The vast, desolate beauty of the Mojave National Preserve in California.

⛰️

Mogollon Rim

The dramatic transition from the Arizona desert to the high-country Ponderosa pine forests.

🪨

New Mexico Mesas

Colorful, flat-topped geological formations throughout the Land of Enchantment.

🌊

Lake Travis

Stunning aerial views of the reservoir and the lush Texas Hill Country during the final descent.

Book a window seat on the left for morning departures to avoid direct sun glare. Watch for the stark contrast between the desert and the green Hill Country as you cross the 100th meridian. During the approach to Austin, this side typically offers the best view of the lakes and the downtown skyline.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🚢

Long Beach Coast

Immediate views of the Port of Long Beach, the Queen Mary, and the Pacific coastline upon takeoff.

🌵

Joshua Tree

Rugged views of the San Jacinto Mountains and the northern boundary of Joshua Tree National Park.

🏙️

Phoenix Metro

Expansive views of the Valley of the Sun and its surrounding desert mountain parks.

⚪

White Sands

Distant, shimmering views of the white gypsum dunes in southern New Mexico.

🛢️

West Texas Oil Fields

The unique industrial patterns of the Permian Basin and massive wind farms near Abilene.

The right side is perfect for late afternoon flights to catch the golden hour over the desert. Look for the US-Mexico border grid near El Paso, which is often visible on clear days. If arriving at night, the oil field lights of West Texas create a galaxy-like effect on the ground.

Top Activities in Austin
Route Information

Distance: 1,969 km (1,223 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 38 min

Departure: LGB (33.81769943, -118.1520004)

Arrival: AUS (30.194499969482425, -97.6698989868164)

Route Type: Domestic

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