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OGG → PHX
Which side of the plane to sit from Kahului Airport (Kahului) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is slightly superior due to the iconic departure view of Haleakala Crater and the dramatic desert landscapes of the Salton Sea and Southwest Arizona during the approach.
Haleakala Crater
The most significant highlight of the route, offering a direct view into the massive, Mars-like cinder cones of Maui's dormant volcano.
Hana Coastline
Deep green rainforests and cascading waterfalls along the winding Road to Hana as the plane gains altitude.
Salton Sea
A massive, shimmering endorheic lake in the California desert that creates a stark contrast with the surrounding arid land.
Imperial Valley
The bright green geometric patterns of agricultural fields in the middle of the Sonoran Desert near the border.
Kofa National Wildlife Refuge
Jagged mountain ranges and vast desert wilderness areas in Western Arizona as you approach the Phoenix valley.
South Mountain Park
On the final approach, the right side looks over one of the largest municipal parks in the US and the southern urban expanse.
Choose the right side specifically for the Haleakala view, which is the scenic peak of the trip. Note that on evening flights from Maui, the sun will be on the right side for the first half of the trip, so keep your window shade down during the ocean crossing to stay cool until landfall.
Maui North Shore
Immediate views of the rugged cliffs and famous surfing beaches of Maui's northern coastline upon takeoff.
Molokai & Oahu
On clear days, distant views of the neighboring islands of Molokai and the silhouette of Oahu to the northwest.
Southern California Coast
First landfall typically occurs near the Channel Islands or the Los Angeles basin, offering vast coastal vistas.
Joshua Tree National Park
The unique high-desert terrain and massive rock formations of Joshua Tree are often visible as you head inland.
Colorado River
Crossing the border from California into Arizona, the blue ribbon of the Colorado River cuts through the desert.
Camelback Mountain
During the final descent into PHX, the north side provides a great view of Scottsdale and the iconic Camelback profile.
Sit on the left for a chance to see distant Hawaiian islands at departure and the northern Phoenix landmarks like the McDowell Mountains. Morning flights are ideal for the left side to avoid direct sunlight and glare while looking north over the California coast.
Distance: 4,572 km (2,841 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 23 min
Departure: OGG (20.8986, -156.429993)
Arrival: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Route Type: Domestic
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