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PHX → YYZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to Lester B. Pearson International Airport (Toronto)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic transition from the Arizona desert to the Rocky Mountains, plus iconic views of Chicago and the massive expanses of the Great Lakes.
Mogollon Rim
The dramatic geological shelf where the Arizona desert ascends into high-altitude ponderosa pine forests.
Southern Rockies
Glimpse the rugged, often snow-capped peaks of the Sangre de Cristo range in southern Colorado and New Mexico.
Chicago Skyline
On clear days, the path often provides a distant but clear view of the Willis Tower and Lake Michigan's curve.
Lake Michigan
Vast turquoise waters and the sandy coastlines of the Michigan peninsula as you cross toward Ontario.
Huron National Forest
Dense woodland views and the transition into the lush greenery of the Great Lakes Basin.
Opt for an afternoon flight to have the sun behind you, providing perfect lighting for the Rockies and the Great Lakes. Sitting in front of the wing prevents engine haze from blurring the high-altitude mountain views. If flying in winter, the snow-covered Midwestern plains create a beautiful geometric white quilt.
Sonoran Desert
Detailed views of the unique desert topography and dry riverbeds immediately after takeoff from Phoenix.
St. Louis Arch
A chance to spot the iconic Gateway Arch while crossing the massive Mississippi River corridor near Missouri.
Lake Erie
Scenic views of the North Shore and the agricultural heartland of Southwestern Ontario during the descent.
Toronto Skyline
Depending on the landing runway at YYZ, the right side frequently offers a direct view of the CN Tower and downtown.
On morning departures, the sun will be on this side, which can cause significant glare; use the window shade accordingly. However, this side is often better for seeing the Toronto city core and the Niagara region during the final approach into Pearson if the flight patterns are coming from the west.
Distance: 3,013 km (1,872 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 33 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: YYZ (43.6772003174, -79.63059997559999)
Route Type: International
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