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PHX → SNA
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to John Wayne Airport-Orange County Airport (Santa Ana)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers unparalleled views of the high Mojave desert, the towering San Bernardino Mountains, and iconic Orange County landmarks like Disneyland during the final descent.
Downtown Phoenix
A clear view of the city's skyline and the Arizona State Capitol shortly after lifting off from Sky Harbor.
Joshua Tree National Park
Spot the unique geological formations and high-altitude desert landscapes of this protected wilderness.
San Gorgonio Mountain
The highest peak in Southern California, which often features a snow-capped summit well into the spring months.
Disneyland Resort
Look for the iconic Matterhorn Bobsleds and Space Mountain as the plane begins its steep descent into Santa Ana.
Angel Stadium
The 'Big A' and the surrounding Anaheim sports complex are visible just minutes before touchdown.
Morning flights on the right side avoid direct glare, making it easier to photograph the San Bernardino mountains. Keep your camera ready during the last 10 minutes of the flight for the best urban views of the Los Angeles basin.
South Mountain Park
View the expansive trail networks and jagged ridges of the largest municipal park in the United States right after takeoff.
Colorado River
The bright blue water creates a sharp contrast against the desert floor as you cross the border into California.
Mount San Jacinto
A massive 10,834-foot peak that rises dramatically above the Palm Springs desert floor.
Coachella Valley
Observe the perfectly manicured green grids of golf courses and resorts scattered throughout the desert sands.
Newport Coast
On specific flight paths looping from the south, catch a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean and the Balboa Peninsula.
Sit on the left for evening flights to witness stunning desert sunsets. If the plane approaches SNA from the south, this side provides the best view of the coastline and the luxury estates of Laguna Beach.
Distance: 543 km (337 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 54 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: SNA (33.67570114, -117.8679962)
Route Type: Domestic
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