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PHX → LGB
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to Long Beach /Daugherty Field/ Airport (Long Beach)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more dramatic transition from the arid Sonoran Desert to the lush Coachella Valley, featuring the sheer cliffs of the San Jacinto Mountains and a superior angle for the coastal approach into Long Beach.
Sonoran Desert Vistas
Expansive views of the rugged Arizona outback and volcanic craters shortly after departure from PHX.
The Colorado River
The sparkling blue line of the river creates a sharp contrast against the red desert floor near the Arizona-California border.
Coachella Valley
Clear views of Palm Springs and the grid-like agricultural patterns surrounding the Salton Sea in the distance.
San Jacinto Peak
One of the most vertically dramatic mountain faces in the US, rising abruptly 10,000 feet above the desert floor.
Orange County Coastline
As the plane banks for its final approach into LGB, catch glimpses of the Pacific Ocean and Newport Beach.
Sit on the left for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Pacific as you descend. This side also provides the best perspective of the San Jacinto Mountains during the transition from the desert to the LA Basin. Watch for the Salton Sea glinting to the south about mid-flight.
Phoenix Skyline
Excellent views of Downtown Phoenix and the iconic Camelback Mountain immediately after takeoff.
Joshua Tree National Park
The northern reaches of the park are visible, showcasing unique rock formations and high desert terrain.
Mt. San Gorgonio
The highest peak in Southern California, often covered in snow during winter and spring months.
The Inland Empire
A bird's-eye view of the massive logistics hubs and dense suburban sprawl of San Bernardino and Ontario.
LA Basin Skyline
On clear days, you can spot the San Gabriel Mountains and the distant skyscrapers of the Los Angeles skyline during descent.
The right side is superior for mountain enthusiasts, offering a close-up view of the massive San Bernardino range. On clear mornings, the light illuminates the peaks perfectly. Keep an eye out for the Hollywood Sign and the Griffith Observatory far in the distance during the final 10 minutes of the flight.
Distance: 570 km (354 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 57 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: LGB (33.81769943, -118.1520004)
Route Type: Domestic
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