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PHX → LIH
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to Lihue Airport (Lihue)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior for this route because it avoids direct sun glare on westbound flights and offers better views of the California coastline and the lush northern and eastern ridges of Kauai upon arrival.
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San Jacinto Peak
Soaring views over the high mountain peaks near Palm Springs as the plane climbs westward.
Los Angeles Basin
A panoramic view of the vast LA sprawl, including the Hollywood Hills and Santa Monica Bay.
Channel Islands
Excellent views of Santa Catalina and the northern Channel Islands as you cross the California coast.
Garden Isle Arrival
The first glimpse of Kauai's incredibly green landscape, usually featuring the 'Coconut Coast' near Kapaa.
Mount Waialeale
On clear days, see the central peaks of Kauai, known as one of the wettest spots on Earth, with numerous waterfalls.
The right side is the 'shady' side for this westbound flight, providing much better visibility without the sun glare. As you approach Lihue, the plane typically enters from the northeast, making the right side the best for seeing the lush, mountainous interior of Kauai. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing as the island appears suddenly from the blue.
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Sonoran Desert
Dramatic views of the rugged Arizona landscape and the Estrellas mountains immediately after departure.
San Diego Coastline
Distant views of the Southern California bight and the San Diego metropolitan area as you head out to sea.
Deep Pacific Blue
Miles of uninterrupted ocean views, perfect for spotting cloud formations and the sun's reflection on the water.
Poipu Shoreline
If the flight approaches from the south, you will see the famous sunny beaches and resorts of southern Kauai.
Haupu Mountain Range
Jagged mountain ridges located just south of Lihue Airport during the final moments of the flight.
The left side will experience heavy direct sunlight for most of the morning and afternoon, which can make the cabin hot and the window difficult to look out of. It is best for early morning departures where you can catch the sunrise over the desert. On the final approach into LIH, look for the 'Jurassic Park' style ridges if the plane loops south of the island.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 4,787 km (2,975 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 38 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: LIH (21.97599983215332, -159.33900451660156)
Route Type: Domestic
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