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LIH → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Lihue Airport (Lihue) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers a superior experience, providing iconic views of the Santa Monica Mountains and the luxurious Westside of Los Angeles during the final descent, while also capturing the lush northern coastline of Kauai upon departure.
Kauai North Shore
Vibrant green cliffs and the turquoise waters of the Wailua River valley shortly after takeoff.
Pacific Expanse
Uninterrupted views of the deep blue Pacific Ocean with dramatic cloud formations at cruising altitude.
Santa Monica Mountains
The rugged ridge line that separates the San Fernando Valley from the coastal basin.
The Getty Center
The distinctive white travertine architecture of the museum perched on the hills of Brentwood.
LA Westside
Dense urban views of Century City, UCLA, and the sprawling Santa Monica neighborhoods.
Choose the left side for the best 'landfall' experience. As you approach California, the flight path often parallels the coast, offering views of the Santa Barbara area before turning toward LAX. For day flights, the sun will be on the right side (south) for much of the journey, making the left side better for photography without glare.
Nawiliwili Bay
A quick glimpse of Kauai's main harbor and the Haupu Mountain range immediately after takeoff.
Channel Islands
Spot the silhouettes of Santa Catalina and San Clemente Islands rising from the Pacific during descent.
Palos Verdes Peninsula
The dramatic coastal bluffs, luxury estates, and golf courses of the South Bay.
Port of Los Angeles
The massive scale of the San Pedro and Long Beach container terminals and breakwaters.
LAX South Complex
A detailed view of the airport's southern runways and cargo facilities during the final moments of flight.
The right side is ideal for sunset flights, as you'll have a front-row seat to the sun dipping below the horizon over the ocean. It is also the better side for spotting the iconic Channel Islands. Be aware that midday flights on this side can be quite warm and bright due to the southern sun exposure.
Distance: 4,203 km (2,612 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 57 min
Departure: LIH (21.97599983215332, -159.33900451660156)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: Domestic
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