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MEM → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Memphis International Airport (Memphis) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior for this westward route, offering views of the Ozarks, the iconic Meteor Crater in Arizona, and the most favorable perspective of the Los Angeles basin and Hollywood Hills during the standard arrival sequence.
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Ozark National Forest
Rolling green hills and dense forest canopy visible during the first hour of flight.
Meteor Crater
A nearly perfect 50,000-year-old impact site located near Winslow, Arizona.
San Bernardino Mountains
Towering, often snow-capped peaks that mark the boundary of the Los Angeles basin.
Downtown Los Angeles
The cluster of skyscrapers in the financial district visible during the final descent.
Hollywood Hills
The iconic Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory are often visible on the northern approach.
For the best view of Meteor Crater, look out about 45 minutes after passing Albuquerque. During the descent into LAX, the right side is best for spotting the Hollywood Sign if the flight follows the typical northerly downwind leg. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting for photography on this side.
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Mississippi River
Visible immediately after takeoff, showcasing the massive river's meanders and the Memphis skyline.
The Llano Estacado
One of the largest mesas in North America, showing distinctive agricultural 'grid' patterns.
Sonoran Desert Landscape
Vast stretches of arid beauty across southern Arizona and the transition into California.
Salton Sea
A massive, saline endorheic rift lake that stands out sharply against the desert floor.
Palm Springs
The lush green oasis of the Coachella Valley surrounded by stark mountain ranges.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. On a clear day, the Salton Sea is a primary landmark to watch for about 30 minutes before arrival. Avoid the left side on afternoon flights if you are sensitive to heat or glare, as the sun will be direct for most of the journey.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,600 km (1,616 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 28 min
Departure: MEM (35.04240036010742, -89.97669982910156)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: Domestic
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