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PHX → HOU
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to William P Hobby Airport (Houston)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the international border region, including the impressive sight of the Rio Grande and the sprawling El Paso-Juarez metropolitan area, followed by views of the Gulf Coast during the descent into Houston.
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Santa Catalina Mountains
Look south to see the dramatic rise of the peaks surrounding Tucson shortly after leaving Phoenix.
El Paso & Juarez
One of the most unique aerial views in North America, showing two massive cities divided by the thin line of the Rio Grande.
Chihuahuan Desert
Stunning vistas of dry lake beds and isolated mountain ranges throughout West Texas.
Amistad Reservoir
A large, bright blue body of water on the border that stands out starkly against the arid landscape.
Gulf of Mexico
During the descent into HOU, you can often see the coastline and the shipping traffic heading into the port.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct northern sun and glare. Be ready with your camera about 45-60 minutes into the flight for the El Paso crossing, which is the scenic highlight of the route.
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Superstition Mountains
Visible almost immediately after takeoff, these rugged peaks east of Phoenix are famous for their jagged volcanic silhouettes.
Gila National Forest
A massive expanse of high-altitude forest and deep canyons in western New Mexico.
Texas Hill Country
As the plane enters Central Texas, the desert gives way to rolling green hills and winding rivers west of Austin.
Houston Energy Corridor
On the final approach, see the massive office complexes and urban density of West Houston.
Sit on the left for morning flights to see the sun rising over the New Mexico highlands. This side is also better for spotting the edge of the Llano Estacado plains if the flight path tracks slightly north.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,639 km (1,018 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 11 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: HOU (29.64539909, -95.27890015)
Route Type: Domestic
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