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NRT → MEX
Which side of the plane to sit from Narita International Airport (Tokyo) to Licenciado Benito Juarez International Airport (Mexico City)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is superior for this transpacific journey as the Great Circle route tracks north towards the volcanic Aleutian Islands and offers a spectacular view of the U.S. West Coast mountain ranges before the final descent into Central Mexico.
Tohoku Coastline
Visible shortly after departure, offering views of the rugged eastern shores of Japan's Honshu island.
Aleutian Islands
A remote chain of volcanic islands stretching across the North Pacific, often visible if the northern track is taken.
Pacific Northwest
Aerial views of the misty forests and snow-capped peaks of the Cascade Range in Oregon and Washington.
Northern California
Dramatic views of the San Francisco Bay Area and the golden hills of the Central Valley during the southward turn.
Iztaccíhuatl Volcano
The 'Sleeping Woman' volcano is often visible on the left side during the final approach into the Valley of Mexico.
The most dramatic views occur in the first few hours (Japan coast) and the final 3 hours (North American coast). Use a flight tracker to see if the plane is following the 'Northern Track' near Alaska; if so, keep your window shade up about 4-5 hours into the flight. For the arrival in MEX, the left side usually provides a better view of the 'Sleeping Woman' volcano if the wind is blowing from the north.
The Deep Pacific
Endless horizons of the North Pacific Ocean, perfect for observing cloud formations and the vastness of the sea.
Baja California
The striking contrast of the desert mountains meeting the turquoise waters of the Gulf of California.
Sea of Cortez
Deep blue waters dotted with remote islands as the flight crosses from the peninsula to the Mexican mainland.
Sierra Madre Occidental
The rugged, jagged peaks of Mexico's western mountain range, featuring deep canyons and high plateaus.
Popocatépetl Volcano
The iconic active volcano 'El Popo' is frequently visible to the south during the descent into Mexico City.
The right side is ideal for the latter portion of the flight. As you enter Mexican airspace, the desert geography of Baja is a highlight. This side typically avoids direct sunlight for much of the eastbound trip, preventing cabin glare. During the descent into MEX, the right side often gets a spectacular view of the sprawling urban landscape and the active Popocatépetl volcano venting steam.
Distance: 11,254 km (6,993 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 13 hrs 14 min
Departure: NRT (35.764701843299996, 140.386001587)
Arrival: MEX (19.4363, -99.072098)
Route Type: International
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