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MCO → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Orlando International Airport (Orlando) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior primarily for the iconic final approach into San Diego, offering an unparalleled view of the downtown skyline, Balboa Park, and the San Diego Zoo as the aircraft descends steeply into the urban core.
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Gulf Coastline
Aerial views of the white sand beaches of the Florida Panhandle and the intricate wetlands of the Mississippi Delta.
Sonoran Desert
Vast stretches of the Arizona desert featuring unique rock formations and the visible international border fence with Mexico.
Salton Sea
A massive, shimmering endorheic lake in the Colorado Desert of California, appearing as a blue oasis amidst arid land.
Balboa Park
During the final descent, look down at the historic California Tower and the lush botanical gardens of San Diego's famous park.
San Diego Skyline
The plane flies incredibly close to the skyscrapers of downtown San Diego just seconds before touching down on the runway.
On this Westbound flight, the left side will face South. During the winter months, the sun will be lower in the southern sky, which may cause glare; however, the payoff is the 'urban canyon' landing at SAN. Be sure to have your camera ready about 5-8 minutes before landing to capture the skyline. For the best desert views, keep your window shade down during the bright mid-flight to keep the cabin cool, then open it once over the California mountains.
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Central Florida Lakes
Immediately after takeoff, see the countless lakes and wetlands that define the landscape around the Orlando area.
The Mississippi River
The plane crosses the massive, winding artery of the United States, often near the city of New Orleans or Baton Rouge.
Texas Hill Country
Rugged limestone hills and sprawling ranch lands visible between the major Texas metropolitan hubs.
Cuyamaca Mountains
The final mountain barrier before the descent into the coastal basin, featuring pine forests and rocky peaks.
San Diego Bay
A view of the northern part of the bay, including the historic Point Loma peninsula and the harbor entrance.
The right side offers great views of the transitioning landscape from the humid Southeast to the arid West without the direct glare of the sun. It is particularly good for sunset flights as you'll see the northern sky turn shades of purple and gold. On the final approach, while the left side sees the city, the right side sees the colorful residential neighborhoods of Little Italy and the marina.
Book Hotels in San DiegoDistance: 3,452 km (2,145 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 4 min
Departure: MCO (28.429399490356445, -81.30899810791016)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: Domestic
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