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PHX → MIA
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to Miami International Airport (Miami)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side (North) offers superior views of iconic terrestrial landmarks, including the New Mexico mountains, the winding Mississippi River Delta, and a spectacular approach over the Everglades into the Miami skyline without the glare of the southern sun.
Superstition Mountains
Just after takeoff from PHX, view the rugged volcanic peaks and the sprawling Tonto National Forest.
Gila Wilderness
Witness the vast, mountainous terrain of western New Mexico, showcasing deep canyons and dense forests.
Mississippi River Delta
See the massive 'bird's foot' delta where the Mississippi meets the Gulf, one of the most distinct geographic features in the US.
New Orleans & Lake Pontchartrain
On many flight paths, the Crescent City and the massive bridge spanning Lake Pontchartrain are clearly visible.
The Emerald Coast
Look down at the bright white sands and turquoise waters of Destin and Panama City Beach, Florida.
The Everglades
A sea of sawgrass and mangrove forests dominates the landscape as you descend toward Miami.
Miami Skyline
During the final approach, the left side often gets a sweeping view of Downtown Miami and the Brickell financial district.
Sit on the left to avoid the harsh southern sun that can cause glare on the windows during morning and afternoon flights. Keep your camera ready about 3 hours into the flight for the Mississippi Delta crossing. On clear days, the transition from the red desert of the West to the lush green of the South is visually striking.
Chihuahuan Desert
Sprawling views of the high desert plains across Southern New Mexico and West Texas.
Permian Basin
View the geometric patterns of the massive oil and gas fields surrounding Midland and Odessa, Texas.
Gulf of Mexico
Vast blue water views with cargo ships and oil rigs visible off the coast of Louisiana and Mississippi.
Florida Keys
On a southerly arrival path, you may see the string of islands stretching toward Key West in the distance.
Biscayne Bay
As the plane turns for its final approach, enjoy the turquoise waters and sandbars of the bay.
Miami Beach
If the plane loops over the Atlantic before landing, the right side provides a bird's-eye view of South Beach and the Port of Miami.
The right side (South) can be very bright during mid-day flights; keep the window shade partially down to manage heat and light. This side is better if you prefer ocean views over city landmarks. If the flight arrives from the south, the right side offers a peek at the Florida Keys and the turquoise reefs of the Atlantic coast.
Distance: 3,168 km (1,969 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 44 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: MIA (25.79319953918457, -80.29060363769531)
Route Type: Domestic
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