Loading map...
MEX → PHX
Which side of the plane to sit from Licenciado Benito Juarez International Airport (Mexico City) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the dramatic Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range and the vast, colorful expanse of the Sonoran Desert during the northern transit.
Nevado de Toluca
Shortly after departure, look for the impressive peak and crater of this extinct volcano to the west of the Valley of Mexico.
Sierra Madre Occidental
Fly parallel to the rugged peaks and deep canyons of Mexico's western mountain spine for a significant portion of the cruise.
Sonoran Desert
Observe the transition into the arid landscapes of Sonora, characterized by unique geological formations and dry riverbeds.
Gulf of California
On clear days, the shimmering blue waters of the Sea of Cortez are visible in the distance to the far west.
South Mountain Park
During the final descent into PHX, get a close-up view of the world's largest municipal park and its rocky ridges.
Book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the mountains and desert colors perfectly. This side is also best for seeing the sprawling suburban expansion of Phoenix as you approach from the south. Keep your window shade down during mid-afternoon flights to avoid the intense desert sun glare.
Querétaro & Central Cities
View the organized urban grids and historic centers of central Mexican industrial hubs like Querétaro early in the flight.
Mexican Altiplano
The high-altitude plateau offers a patchwork of agricultural lands and high-desert basins stretching toward the horizon.
Sky Islands
As you cross into Arizona, spot the isolated, forest-topped mountain ranges that rise sharply from the desert floor.
Picacho Peak
Look for this prominent, jagged rock spire located between Tucson and Phoenix, a historic landmark for travelers.
Camelback Mountain
Upon arrival, the right side often provides an iconic view of this camel-shaped mountain in the heart of the Phoenix valley.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to see the 'Golden Hour' glow on the Arizona Sky Islands. When approaching PHX from the east or south, you will likely see downtown Phoenix and the stadiums. If the flight path takes you over the Copper Canyon region (Barranca del Cobre), the right side offers the best angle into the deep ravines.
Distance: 2,017 km (1,253 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 41 min
Departure: MEX (19.4363, -99.072098)
Arrival: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.