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MIA destination photo
LAX destination photo

MIALAX

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side (North) is superior for this transcontinental route as it avoids the harsh southern sun glare while providing iconic views of the Mississippi River, Arizona's red rock country, and the classic Downtown Los Angeles approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏖️

Miami Gold Coast

Views of the high-rise skyline of Brickell and the turquoise waters of Biscayne Bay.

🌀

Mississippi Delta

The intricate, winding patterns of the Mississippi River near New Orleans and the Louisiana bayous.

🔴

Red Rock Country

Far-off glimpses of the crimson sandstone formations of Sedona and Northern Arizona.

🏔️

San Bernardino Mountains

Snow-capped peaks and the San Andreas Fault line as the plane enters the Los Angeles Basin.

🏙️

Downtown Los Angeles

A close-up view of the DTLA skyscraper cluster and the sprawling city grid on final approach.

🎬

Hollywood Sign

The legendary sign and Griffith Observatory are often visible nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Sit on the right to avoid direct sunlight, making it easier to take photos of the diverse terrain. For the best view of the Hollywood Sign and DTLA, ensure you are seated behind the wing. In winter, look for the distinct snow line on the San Gabriel Mountains as you descend into Southern California.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🐊

The Everglades

The massive 'River of Grass' wetland ecosystem visible immediately after departing Miami.

🌊

Gulf of Mexico

Stunning vistas of the deep blue Gulf waters and the white sands of the Florida Panhandle.

🌵

Sonoran Desert

Dramatic desert landscapes and rugged mountain ranges along the U.S.-Mexico border.

💧

Salton Sea

California's largest inland lake, appearing as a shimmering blue mirror in the desert floor.

🏝️

Catalina Island

Aerial views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Catalina Island during the over-water approach to LAX.

The left side is best for early morning flights to see the sunrise reflect off the Gulf of Mexico. However, on afternoon flights, the southern sun can be intense and require closing the window shade. During the descent into LAX, look for the Queen Mary in Long Beach if the flight path follows the coastline.

Top Activities in Los Angeles
Route Information

Distance: 3,763 km (2,338 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 26 min

Departure: MIA (25.79319953918457, -80.29060363769531)

Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)

Route Type: Domestic

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