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MCI destination photo
LAX destination photo

MCILAX

Our Recommendation
9.0

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is the premier choice for this route, offering the best vantage points for the Grand Canyon, Lake Mead, and the Las Vegas skyline, which typically lie to the north of the standard flight path.

Right Side Highlights
9.0
🏔️

Southern Rockies

The rugged, often snow-dusted peaks of the San Juan Mountains in Southern Colorado.

🏞️

Grand Canyon

Unparalleled views of the massive canyon system, including the North and South Rims.

💧

Lake Mead

The striking blue reservoir of the Colorado River set against the stark red rock environment.

🎰

Las Vegas Strip

The dense cluster of mega-resorts and the Sphere visible as you pass through Nevada.

🌵

Mojave National Preserve

Expansive desert vistas featuring dry lake beds and the unique topography of eastern California.

The right side is essential for the Grand Canyon; it usually appears about 45-60 minutes before arrival at LAX. Afternoon flights on the right side avoid direct sunlight, providing the softest lighting for photography of the canyon and the Las Vegas Strip. Avoid seats over the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the ground.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌾

Great Plains Art

Intricate geometric patterns of center-pivot irrigation systems across the Kansas landscape.

☄️

Meteor Crater

The massive and remarkably preserved Barringer impact crater visible in the Arizona desert floor.

🏜️

Painted Desert

Sweeping views of the colorful, stratified badlands and mesas of northern Arizona.

⛰️

San Jacinto Mountains

The dramatic rise of the 10,000-foot peaks near Palm Springs during the final descent.

🏢

Orange County Sprawl

Views of the sprawling Southern California suburbs and the Santa Ana Mountains.

On morning flights, the left side is in the sun, which can cause glare; choose this side for sunset flights to witness the sky change colors over the desert. Look for the distinct circular impact of Meteor Crater about 40 minutes before descent begins.

Top Activities in Los Angeles
Route Information

Distance: 2,190 km (1,361 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 55 min

Departure: MCI (39.2976, -94.713898)

Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)

Route Type: Domestic

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