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PHX → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer stunning desert vistas, the Right Side is the clear winner for the world-famous 'urban canyon' approach into San Diego, where you fly remarkably close to downtown skyscrapers.
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Downtown Phoenix
Clear views of the Phoenix skyline and the Chase Field stadium during the initial climb.
Salton Sea
Look north to see California's largest lake, a shimmering saline oasis in the middle of the desert.
Laguna Mountains
Rugged, pine-topped peaks and deep canyons as the aircraft crosses the Peninsular Ranges.
Balboa Park
Spot the California Tower and the distinctive enclosures of the San Diego Zoo during the low-altitude descent.
Downtown San Diego
The 'star of the show'—the plane glides just above the rooftops of the downtown high-rises seconds before landing.
The right side is essential for the iconic 'San Diego landing.' Request a seat in front of the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block your view of the skyscrapers. For the best lighting on the city buildings, choose a mid-afternoon flight when the sun illuminates the skyline from the south.
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Sonoran Desert
Expansive views of the rugged Arizona desert and the Estrella Mountains shortly after takeoff.
Algodones Dunes
A massive field of rolling sand dunes near the California-Arizona border, resembling the Sahara.
Imperial Valley
A striking grid of bright green agricultural fields that stand out against the surrounding parched desert.
Coronado Island
Excellent views of the famous Hotel del Coronado and the thin Silver Strand beach upon approach.
San Diego Bay
A bird's-eye view of the U.S. Navy fleet, the Coronado Bridge, and the bustling maritime activity.
Sit on the left if you are a fan of naval history or beach landscapes. This side avoids direct sun glare during early morning flights, but will be hit by harsh sunlight in the late afternoon. Watch for the dramatic shift from desert to the deep blue of the Pacific as the plane turns for its final approach.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 489 km (304 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 49 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: Domestic
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