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PHX → PSP
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to Palm Springs International Airport (Palm Springs)?
Right Side of the Plane
This short desert hop offers stunning views of the arid Southwest. While both sides provide spectacular vistas of rugged mountains and vast desert basins, the right side captures the iconic landscapes of Joshua Tree and the massive San Bernardino peaks.
Phoenix Skyline
Excellent views of the downtown corridor and Camelback Mountain during the initial climb.
Colorado River
The distinct blue-green ribbon of water marking the border between Arizona and California.
Joshua Tree National Park
Vast stretches of high-desert wilderness and unique monzogranite rock formations.
San Gorgonio Pass
Home to thousands of iconic wind turbines and the towering peak of San Gorgonio Mountain.
The right side offers a superior view of Joshua Tree National Park and the massive San Bernardino Mountains. It is also the best side for viewing the famous wind farms in the San Gorgonio Pass during the approach into PSP. Morning flights provide the best lighting for these northern features.
South Mountain Park
One of the largest municipal parks in the US, visible immediately after takeoff from PHX.
Kofa National Wildlife Refuge
Dramatic, jagged volcanic peaks and desert wilderness in western Arizona.
Salton Sea
The shimmering blue expanse of California's largest lake, located south of the flight path.
San Jacinto Peak
A massive 10,834-foot granite face that towers directly over Palm Springs during the final descent.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Salton Sea and the sheer verticality of Mount San Jacinto as you descend into the Coachella Valley. For late afternoon flights, this side will be facing away from the direct sun, making it better for photography without glare.
Distance: 418 km (260 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 42 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: PSP (33.829700469970696, -116.50700378417967)
Route Type: Domestic
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