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PSP β IAH
Which side of the plane to sit from Palm Springs International Airport (Palm Springs) to George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior for this route as it offers an unparalleled view of the Salton Sea immediately after departure and a clear perspective of the international border crossing at El Paso.
The Salton Sea
California's largest lake appears as a shimmering blue expanse in the desert basin shortly after takeoff.
Imperial Valley
The vibrant green agricultural grid of the valley stands out against the harsh surrounding desert.
El Paso and JuΓ‘rez
The striking visual of two massive cities divided by the Rio Grande and the international border.
Davis Mountains
The high-altitude volcanic peaks of West Texas, often visible during the mid-flight cruise.
Texas Piney Woods
As you descend into Houston, the landscape shifts to the dense, green forests of East Texas.
The Salton Sea is visible within the first 10-15 minutes of flight; be ready early. For night flights, the right side offers a spectacular view of the glowing border between the United States and Mexico at El Paso.
San Jacinto Peak
The massive granite face of the San Jacinto Mountains rises 10,000 feet directly north of the flight path during takeoff.
Joshua Tree National Park
Aerial views of the distinct rock formations and high desert landscapes of the Mojave to the north.
The Colorado River
A winding blue ribbon cutting through the arid landscape near the California-Arizona border.
Gila National Forest
The lush, mountainous terrain of western New Mexico provides a sharp contrast to the surrounding desert.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you, which enhances the colors of the Arizona desert. This side is also best for seeing the rugged mountains of the Gila Wilderness in New Mexico.
Distance: 2,039 km (1,267 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 43 min
Departure: PSP (33.829700469970696, -116.50700378417967)
Arrival: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Route Type: Domestic
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