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MIA → PHX
Which side of the plane to sit from Miami International Airport (Miami) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for major landmarks including New Orleans, the Texas Hill Country, and the dramatic mountain ranges of the Southwest before descending over the Superstition Mountains into Phoenix.
New Orleans
Clear views of the Crescent City, the Mississippi River loops, and the massive Lake Pontchartrain.
Texas Hill Country
The transition from coastal plains to the rolling green hills and river canyons of central Texas.
Guadalupe Mountains
Spot El Capitan and Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas, rising sharply from the desert floor.
White Sands National Park
A stunning visual of the world's largest gypsum dune field, appearing as a bright white patch in the NM desert.
Superstition Mountains
The iconic, jagged volcanic peaks that mark the eastern edge of the Phoenix metropolitan area during descent.
The right side is ideal for photography on this route as it faces north, providing consistent indirect lighting and avoiding direct sun glare. Watch for the White Sands in New Mexico approximately 45-60 minutes before landing. During the PHX approach, this side typically provides better views of the valley's mountain parks.
Everglades National Park
Aerial views of the vast river of grass and intricate mangrove systems shortly after takeoff.
Gulf of Mexico
Sweeping views of the deep blue waters and occasional offshore oil platforms along the coastline.
Port of Houston
One of the world's busiest ports and the massive industrial infrastructure of the Texas coast.
Chihuahuan Desert
Expansive views of the high-altitude desert landscapes spanning West Texas and New Mexico.
Chiricahua Mountains
Rugged mountain peaks and 'Sky Islands' visible as the flight enters Southeastern Arizona.
On this westbound route, the left side will face south, resulting in significant sun glare during midday and afternoon flights. Keep the window shade partially down to manage heat. This side is better for spotting the Rio Grande and the international border regions.
Distance: 3,168 km (1,969 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 44 min
Departure: MIA (25.79319953918457, -80.29060363769531)
Arrival: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Route Type: Domestic
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