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MEX → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Licenciado Benito Juarez International Airport (Mexico City) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior experience, particularly during the final descent into San Diego, where passengers are treated to iconic close-up views of the downtown skyscrapers and the San Diego Bay.
Mexican Volcanoes
Distant views of Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl rising above the Valley of Mexico shortly after takeoff.
Sierra Madre Occidental
Dramatic vistas of rugged mountain peaks and deep canyons as the flight traverses western Mexico.
Sea of Cortez
Breathtaking views of the deep blue Gulf of California meeting the arid coastline of Sonora and Baja.
San Diego Skyline
The world-famous 'urban canyon' approach, flying past the glass towers of downtown San Diego.
San Diego Bay
Clear views of the USS Midway, North Island Naval Air Station, and the Coronado Bridge just before touchdown.
For the most dramatic arrival, sit on the left side (Seat A/B). Choose a seat behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the skyscrapers during the steep descent into SAN. If flying during sunset, this side captures the golden light reflecting off the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez.
Sonoran Desert
Expansive views of the vast, arid landscapes and unique geological formations of northern Mexico.
Salton Sea
A massive, shimmering inland sea in the California desert that stands out against the surrounding brown terrain.
Imperial Valley
Perfectly geometric agricultural grids creating a green patchwork in the middle of the Colorado Desert.
Cuyamaca Mountains
The final mountain range before the urban sprawl, often featuring snow-dusted peaks in the winter months.
Balboa Park
A glimpse of the California Tower and the lush greenery of San Diego's famous urban park on final approach.
The right side (Seat E/F) is ideal for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. It provides excellent views of the Salton Sea and the stark contrast between the desert and the irrigated Imperial Valley. Watch for the stark line of the US-Mexico border near Mexicali/Calexico.
Distance: 2,330 km (1,448 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 6 min
Departure: MEX (19.4363, -99.072098)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: International
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