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PHX → CUN
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to Cancún International Airport (Cancun)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the Texas Gulf Coast and the stunning turquoise waters of the Riviera Maya upon the final approach to Cancun.
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Sonoran Desert
Expansive views of the Arizona-Mexico border region characterized by unique desert topography.
The Rio Grande
The winding river marking the international border between the United States and Mexico.
Padre Island
The world's longest barrier island, featuring pristine white dunes and the Laguna Madre.
Gulf Oil Rigs
Dotted throughout the Gulf of Mexico, these massive structures are visible as you leave the Texas coast.
Riviera Maya Coastline
Vibrant turquoise waters and white sand beaches stretching from Playa del Carmen toward Cancun.
Cozumel Island
Depending on the wind direction and landing pattern, you may see the large island of Cozumel to the south.
The right side is prime for the 'wow' moment as you cross from the deep blue Gulf of Mexico to the bright turquoise shelf of the Yucatan. Afternoon flights may experience some glare on this side, but it provides the best view of the coastline and coral reefs during the arrival sequence.
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Superstition Mountains
Dramatic volcanic peaks and rugged wilderness visible immediately after departing Phoenix heading east.
Guadalupe Mountains
The high peaks of West Texas, including El Capitan, rise sharply from the surrounding desert floor.
Houston & Galveston
Distant views of the sprawling Houston metro area and the complex waterways of Galveston Bay.
Isla Holbox
The northern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula where the Gulf meets the Caribbean, featuring shallow sandbars.
Cancun Hotel Zone
The iconic '7' shaped sandbar lined with resorts is often visible on the left during a northern approach.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you for better photography. This side is also preferred if the flight path takes a northern loop around Cancun, offering a direct view of the Hotel Zone and Isla Mujeres during the final descent.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for MexicoDistance: 2,830 km (1,758 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 46 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)
Route Type: International
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