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PHX → ZIH
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to Ixtapa Zihuatanejo International Airport (Zihuatanejo)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers spectacular coastal views of the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific coastline, including prominent bays and beach resorts, while avoiding the harsh glare of the morning sun during typical southbound morning departures.
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Sea of Cortez
Expansive views of the turquoise waters separating the mainland from the Baja California peninsula.
Mazatlán Coastline
Clear views of the 'Pearl of the Pacific' and its iconic lighthouse hill as you transition from Sonora to Sinaloa.
Banderas Bay
The massive crescent-shaped bay of Puerto Vallarta is often visible as the flight path hugs the coastline.
Costa Grande
The lush tropical coastline of Michoacán and Guerrero, featuring secluded coves and dense jungle.
Zihuatanejo Bay
The final descent offers a breathtaking perspective of the protected bay and the hotel zone of Ixtapa.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sun while capturing the Pacific horizon. Watch for the distinct line where the desert meets the sea in Sonora. During the descent into ZIH, keep your camera ready for the dramatic transition from the Sierra Madre mountains down to the emerald waters of the Pacific. Best views occur in the final 30 minutes of the flight.
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Sonoran Desert Vistas
Aerial views of the rugged desert floor and the Gila River valley shortly after takeoff from Phoenix.
Sierra Madre Occidental
Stunning views of the jagged, high-altitude mountain range with deep canyons and dense pine forests.
Colima Volcanic Complex
On a clear day, look for the towering Volcán de Fuego and the snow-capped Nevado de Colima to the east.
Guadalajara Metro Area
A distant view of Mexico's second-largest city and the nearby Lake Chapala as you cross Jalisco.
Sit on the left if you prefer looking at inland geological features and high-altitude mountain ranges. To see the Colima volcanoes, ensure you are past the halfway point of the flight. Be aware that during the morning, this side will experience significant direct sunlight, which can make photography through the window challenging.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for MexicoDistance: 2,051 km (1,274 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 44 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: ZIH (17.601600647, -101.460998535)
Route Type: International
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