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PHX → BUF
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to Buffalo Niagara International Airport (Buffalo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this transcontinental route, offering a prime view of the Southern Rockies and, most importantly, the best opportunity to see Niagara Falls during the descent into Buffalo.
Mogollon Rim
Visible shortly after takeoff, this dramatic limestone and sandstone cliff marks the edge of the Colorado Plateau.
Sangre de Cristo Mountains
The southernmost subrange of the Rockies provides snow-capped peaks and rugged terrain over New Mexico.
Chicago & Lake Michigan
On many flight paths, the Chicago skyline and the vast blue expanse of Lake Michigan are visible to the north.
Lake Erie North Shore
As you approach Buffalo, you will fly along the Canadian side of the lake with views of the Ontario shoreline.
Niagara Falls
Depending on the landing pattern, the left side often gets a spectacular view of the mist and the falls during the final approach.
Sit on the left for the best chance of spotting Niagara Falls. The falls are located roughly 15 miles northwest of the airport; if the plane approaches from the west, the left side has a direct view. Morning flights are ideal to avoid the glare of the southern sun.
Salt River Valley
Aerial views of the Tonto National Forest and the winding Salt River shortly after departing Phoenix.
Arkansas River
The plane frequently follows the path of the Arkansas River across the transition from the Rockies to the Great Plains.
Cleveland Skyline
Excellent views of the Ohio shoreline and downtown Cleveland as the flight tracks along the southern edge of Lake Erie.
Presque Isle State Park
Look for the distinctive recurved sand spit reaching into Lake Erie near Erie, Pennsylvania.
Lake Erie Sunset
On evening flights, the right side offers a spectacular view of the sun setting over the water as you descend.
The right side is best for seeing the industrial heart of the Midwest and the southern shores of the Great Lakes. Choose this side for evening flights to witness the sunset over the horizon without the direct glare hitting your window.
Distance: 3,071 km (1,908 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 37 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: BUF (42.94049835, -78.73220062)
Route Type: Domestic
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