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MXL → HMO
Which side of the plane to sit from General Rodolfo Sánchez Taboada International Airport (Mexicali) to General Ignacio P. Garcia International Airport (Hermosillo)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a spectacular combination of the Sea of Cortez coastline and the vast Sonoran Desert landscapes, providing higher contrast and better visibility of the region's unique geography.
Colorado River Delta
The complex network of estuarine channels where the Colorado River meets the Gulf of California.
Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point)
Clear views of the popular coastal resort town and its distinct Cholla Bay area.
Isla San Jorge
A small, rocky archipelago also known as Bird Island, appearing as a white speck in the blue gulf.
Sea of Cortez Horizon
A vast expanse of deep blue water contrasting with the white salt flats along the shoreline.
Bahía de Adair
Shallow turquoise waters and intricate tidal patterns that look like natural abstract art.
The right side is superior for coastal photography. As the flight progresses south, the contrast between the turquoise Adair Bay and the white sand is breathtaking. Afternoon flights provide the most vibrant colors in the water, though the glare can be strong, so polarized sunglasses are recommended. Look for the 'Schuk Toak' dunes just before reaching the coast.
El Pinacate Biosphere Reserve
Witness the massive volcanic craters and ancient lava flows of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Gran Desierto de Altar
The largest active dune field in North America, showing intricate wind-swept patterns from above.
Sierra de San Francisco
Rugged mountain ranges that rise sharply from the desert floor, providing dramatic shadows during afternoon flights.
Caborca Agricultural Hub
Green geometric patterns of desert irrigation projects contrasting sharply with the surrounding arid land.
Cerro de la Campana
The iconic bell-shaped hill of Hermosillo visible during the final descent into the city.
Sit on the left if you are a geology enthusiast; the El Pinacate craters are world-class landmarks. For the best lighting on these volcanic features, morning flights are preferred as the sun illuminates the western walls of the craters. During winter, look for rare snow caps on the highest peaks of the Sierra.
Distance: 561 km (349 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 56 min
Departure: MXL (32.6306, -115.241997)
Arrival: HMO (29.095899581900007, -111.047996521)
Route Type: Domestic
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